Bo Barnes, one of the University of Hawaii basketball team’s top 3-point threats as a freshman this past season, will transfer to another program, the school announced.

“This was a difficult decision,” said Barnes, a 6-4 guard from Scottsdale, Ariz.

“Being away from my family has been tough and this decision allows me to be closer to them. I absolutely love Hawai’i, the fans and especially my teammates. I want to thank coach (Gib) Arnold and the staff for giving me the opportunity to play here at UH. It was an honor to be a Rainbow Warrior.”

Barnes was one of just two players on the team to appear in all 32 games this season.

He started eight of those contests and averaged 6.9 ppg, tops among freshman. Barnes started his collegiate career with a bang, scoring 19 points in consecutive games off the bench in wins over Montana State and Cal State Fullerton and was subsequently named to the Rainbow Classic All-Tournament team.

He finished second on the team in three-pointers made (57), while setting a freshman single-season record in the category.

“Bo asked to be released and expressed the desire of possibly playing with his younger brother,” Arnold said. “He and his family have always hoped they could play together. Bo had a phenomenal freshman season with us and helped us win a number of games. We appreciate his contributions to the program and wish him all the best.”