Freshmen Willy Kouassi and Bernard Morena were granted their unconditional release by coach Tony Barbee last Monday.
"Obviously, I am disappointed that they decided to leave Auburn, but I have always said in this business, it is not about me or this program, it is about these players and what is best for them," Barbee said in a statement. "Sometimes things don't fit, and I am disappointed that they felt that this wasn't the right fit for them."
Morena was redshirted the 2011-12 season due to a hand injury, while Kouassi scored 1.5 points and grabbed 2.6 rebounds a game in limited action.
"They decided to try to transfer and find a better fit," said Darien Knox, the players' Amateur Athletic Union coach and guardian. "(Auburn) granted them a full release without restrictions, so that was a blessing."
The players' exit marks the fifth transfer during Barbee's tenure, adding to last year's departure of Ernest Ross, Andre Malone and Ty Armstrong.
Kouassi appeared to regain Barbee's confidence toward the end of the season, averaging over 15 minutes a game in the Tigers' final three contests, and he seemed a prime candidate to fill in for senior Adrian Forbes next season.
The high school teammates from Central Park Christian in Birmingham plan to transfer together, but their destination is unknown.
Do you like this story? The Plainsman doesn't accept money from tuition or student fees, and we don't charge a subscription fee. But you can donate to support The Plainsman.
