Florida State University men's basketball player Ryan Lowery, who played only five games last season due to chronic knee pain, has decided to end his playing career. The sophomore business major will continue his academic career and continue to work toward earning his degree, as he has a cumulative 4.0 grade point average.

The Gastonia, N.C. native had surgery to repair a torn lateral meniscus in his left knee Jan 29 by Seminole team physician Dr. Tom Haney.

Lowery has been examined by Haney and Dr. Glenn Perry of the Charlotte Homers. Both determined that for the long-term health of his knees it was best not to participate in collegiate athletics. Both doctors felt that because of the location of the repaired cartilage it would not withstand the rigors and pounding of Lowery's playing.

"I was very disappointed when I got the news, but it has allowed me to channel my energies in many other productive ways," said Lowery. "It closes one door but opens up many more doors in my life. I now have more opportunities to pursue internship and networking opportunities that will help me plan my future career in the financial field. I am going to miss playing has basketball but I am going to continue to help the program in any way I can."

Lowery, a 5-11 guard, averaged 0.6 points, O.8 rebounds and 1.6 assists as he played only in the first five games of the season. He earned extensive playing time in those five games before deciding on seeking a medical redshirt. Lowery averaged a career-high 10.6 minutes in the five games he played with a career-high 19 minutes coming against Northwestern Nov. 28 in the ACC/Big Ten Challenge.

'Unfortunately, Ryan will not be able to complete his basketball career at Florida State because of his chronic knee problems," said head coach Leonard Hamilton. "But because of his outstanding academic record we know he will be able to reach his full potential in the classroom which will enable him to reach all of his goals in life."

Hamilton added his hope for Lowery to continue to be a member of the program in a non-playing position.

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