LAWRENCE, Kan. -- Jeff Withey, a 7-foot freshman who spent one semester at Arizona but did not play for the Wildcats, will transfer to Kansas next semester.

Kansas coach Bill Self confirmed Withey's decision Wednesday night via text message.

Arizona's top 2008 freshman, Withey requested a release from his scholarship before the season began after coach Lute Olson suddenly retired in October.

Withey chose Kansas over Texas, Gonzaga, Cincinnati, Indiana, San Diego, San Diego State and Boston College.

At Kansas, Withey will enroll in classes for the spring semester and will be able to practice immediately. He'll redshirt this season and be eligible to play as a freshman in December 2009.

Withey averaged 20.8 points, 13 rebounds, seven blocks and four assists in his senior season at Horizon High in San Diego.