Romello White asks for release from letter of intent

Georgia Tech signee Romello White of Wheeler High has begun the process to request a release from his letter of intent.

White, a power forward ranked the No. 77 recruit nationally by ESPN, had been uncertain on whether to stay with Tech following the firing of coach Brian Gregory and the hiring of Josh Pastner. Tech was able to retain the other two signees in the class, guard Josh Okogie of Shiloh High and forward Christian Matthews of Fort Washington, Md.

White’s mother, Catrece Martinez, released a statement late Friday afternoon regarding the decision.

“We have begun the process for Romello’s release from GT and once that’s completed, we hope to have more clarity on other schools’ interest so we can make a good choice and find the best fit for him to develop academically and socially, as well as athletically. We’d like to thank GT and especially Coach Pastner for their understanding and help during this transition.”

Pastner had pursued all three signees, well aware of the lack of production returning for his first season. White appeared to be a player who could contribute as a freshman on Tech’s front line, which was in need of help after the graduation of big men Charles Mitchell, Nick Jacobs and James White.

Pastner has indicated his interest in pursuing a graduate transfer to bolster next season's team. Tech also is one of eight finalists for four-star point guard Charlie Moore of Morgan Park High in Chicago. Moore himself asked for a letter of release from Memphis after Pastner left for Tech.

White’s decision was first reported Friday by ESPN.