May 11, 2007

WACO, Texas - Baylor redshirt freshman Jari Vanttaja intends to return to his native Finland and begin a professional basketball career, he announced Friday following the conclusion of the spring semester.

"I want to thank the people here at Baylor University and the Baylor men's basketball coaching staff for giving me the opportunity to come to the United States to attend school and to play basketball," Vanttaja said. "After reviewing my options, I think it is the best move for me to pursue a professional career in Finland which will also help me to be closer to my family. I really enjoyed my time here at Baylor and I wish them the best of luck in the future."

The 6-10 forward redshirted the 2005-06 season at Baylor and played in 10 games this past season as a redshirt freshman. Vanttaja averaged 0.9 points and 1.0 rebounds in 10 career games. He posted career-highs of 3 points, 6 rebounds and 13 minutes in a win over Prairie View last December.

"We support Jari's decision 100 percent," head coach Scott Drew said. "We support his endeavors to begin his professional career in Europe. Our staff has really enjoyed working with him the past two seasons, he is a great young man who worked hard on the court and in the classroom. We wish Jari the best of luck."

A native Finn, Vanttaja is a veteran of several Finnish national teams.