Blake Arnet not returning for senior season

Update: Just got off the phone with basketball team spokesman Ryan Finney. He confirmed that Arnet is leaving the team to focus on school and his career and he doesn’t want to talk to reporters.

Finney also said Howland has not been made aware of the situation as he is on vacation but he expects Howland to persuade Arnet to stay upon his return.

Blake Arnet will not be returning to the UCLA basketball team for the 2011-2012 season, according to his Facebook profile.

Arnet posted the following message Tuesday at 2:43 p.m.

“won’t be back playin ball next yr, not having fun with it.. will miss parts of it but it’s time to move on – u can catch me on the ping pong table doin work!”

If Arnet leaves, Ben Howland is left with a precarious situation at the point guard spot. Last year’s back up, Jerime Anderson, has been suspended indefinitely after being charged with suspicion of grand theft. Playing Lazeric Jones 40 minutes a night doesn’t appear to be an option for Howland, although incoming junior college transfer De’End Parker may be able to provide some valuable minutes.