Khem Birch Leaving Pittsburgh, Heading Back To Canada

One of the highest rated recruits in Pittsburgh Panthers basketball history is leaving. Forward Khem Birch informed CBSSports.com today that he has decided to transfer.

"I'm leaving," Birch told CBSSports.com on Friday night. "I'm headed to Toronto now. I enjoyed my time at Pittsburgh, I love Coach (Jamie) Dixon, had no problems with the staff and the players. It just wasn't the right fit for me."

Birch was the highest rated player that the Pitt basketball program has ever landed, but while his loss stings it won't totally kill their team. Birch had started six games for the Panthers and many felt he was on the verge of breaking out. The Panthers have a good group of young players however, so they should be able to absorb the loss. Pitt also has a highly touted Australian commit Steven Adams on the way next season.

For more on the Pittsburgh Panthers, visit SB Nation's Pitt blog Cardiac Hill.