Louisville releases basketball commits Eric Van Der Heijden, Bobby Pettiford from letters of intent

I mentioned just a little bit ago that Eric Van Der Heijden was unlikely to be the last member of Louisville’s 2021 basketball recruiting class to re-open his recruitment. Now, that’s official.

U of L has released both Van Der Heijden and Bobby Pettiford from their letters of intent, a move they announced in a press release:

Eric Van Der Heijden and Bobby Pettiford, who each signed a national letter-of-intent with the University of Louisville men’s basketball program in November, have been released from their commitments to pursue other opportunities.

“We have granted both their full release and wish them both well,” said UofL Head Men’s Basketball Coach Chris Mack. ”I want them to be happy with their decision and find a place where they can be successful.”

Again, Louisville knows it likely has one more “normal” season before NCAA punishments become an issue. Expect a fairly significant roster overhaul that includes a healthy dose of transfers.