April Calhoun, New Hope, Minn., native and Minnesota’s 2001 Ms. Basketball, has decided to leave Iowa following this season.

The sophomore point guard cited a desire to attend college closer to home and said her decision to depart the Hawkeyes has nothing to do with any sort of falling-out.

A source close to the situation said she is almost sure to attend a school where she can continue her playing career.

As a sophomore, Calhoun averaged 6.5 points, 4.6 assists and 3.9 rebounds, starting all 33 games for the Hawkeyes.

If Calhoun were to transfer to Minnesota, she would not be eligible to receive a scholarship. Transfer students are only allowed a scholarship if they change conferences.

In addition, NCAA eligibility rules would require her to sit out the 2003-04 season and begin her junior season the following year.

Esselink to transfer

Minnesota men’s basketball coach Dan Monson announced junior guard/forward Steve Esselink will transfer at the end of the school year. Esselink will transfer to either a Division II or III institution and will be eligible to play next season.

Freshman forward Roye Arie will not return to the team next season due to NCAA eligibility requirements.