JC transfer Jameel McKay leaves Marquette before playing a game

Junior college star Jameel McKay announced on Thursday that he was leaving Marquette -- three weeks before their first game.

Jameel McKay will never play a game for Marquette.

With less than a month remaining until the start of the season, the junior forward announced on his Twitter that he was leaving Marquette.

After long talk with family I will be transferring from MU great place and program now I'm looking forward to searching for a new Home

— FromRags2Riches (@ShowTime_McKay) October 17, 2013

I appreciate coaching staff and fans no hard feelings at all GoodLuck to them this year!

— FromRags2Riches (@ShowTime_McKay) October 17, 2013

McKay, a 6-foot-8 power forward, transferred to Marquette after starring at Indiana Hills Community College (Iowa). He was ranked the No. 3 junior college prospect in the country by Brad Winton of JucoRecruiting.com and was considered a solid get for the Golden Eagles. He’s a high-level rebounder who could have helped on the glass.

The reasons for his departure are unclear.

With that said, Marquette should be able to overcome his departure. Davante Gardner was named to the preseason All-Big East first team, while Jamil Wilson could be poised for a bigger season. Chris Otule and versatile Steve Taylor also return, while freshman Deonte Burton can play the forward position as well.

The Golden Eagles open their season on Nov. 8 against Southern.