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Caron Butler's statement on UConn's Jim Calhoun.

"Coach Calhoun single handily changed my life from the moment I stepped onto the University of Connecticut campus and joined his program. He knew my background, understood me as a young man, welcomed me with open arms and helped me embrace my talents. He was the first one to really believe in me and told me that I could have a great future in basketball if I continued to work hard. It was his guidance and direction that made me believe it too. He defines what a coach and player relationship can be when it is built on trust and mutual admiration. It is a special bond that allows for both people to have the opportunity to excel in their greatness. I will always be grateful to him for allowing me to have that with him. We are still very close and I talk to him as often as possible. I would do anything for him as he has had such a great impact on my life. He has followed my career religiously and has given me advice throughout the years, and still to this day. My wife Andrea, who I met at UConn, and all of my family wish him well in his post-basketball life. He can look back and reflect on all of his success with great pride. He meant so much to so many players, those of us who were lucky enough to have the experience to play for him. I love him like a father and am happy for his decision. I know he has thought this through thoroughly and has made the best choice for himself and his family. He now will have more time to enjoy the other activities in his life and maybe I can get him to come and see me play more often. Trust me, tickets will not be a problem."