Arizona State freshman Cunliffe opts to transfer

TEMPE, Ariz. (AP) Arizona State freshman Sam Cunliffe, the top-rated player in Bobby Hurley's 2016 recruiting class, has decided to transfer. Hurley wished

TEMPE, Ariz. (AP) Arizona State freshman Sam Cunliffe, the top-rated player in Bobby Hurley's 2016 recruiting class, has decided to transfer.

Hurley wished Cunliffe well in a statement on Monday.

A 6-foot-6 wing from Seattle, Cunliffe was Arizona State's highest-rated recruit since James Harden since 2007.

Cunliffe scored in double figures in five straight games before struggling the past two games, shooting a combined 3 of 16. He appeared to be frustrated after being taken out in the second half of Saturday's win against San Diego State.

Cunliffe averaged 9.5 points and 4.8 rebounds in 10 games.