By Nick Veronica

Zach Lewis

Canisius’ leading scorer is leaving the team.

The school confirmed Monday that shooting guard Zach Lewis will look to transfer from the program, likely seeking a higher level of play. The Windsor, Conn. native will have two years of eligibility remaining.

“We are disappointed to learn that Zach wants to transfer from Canisius,” coach Jim Baron said in a statement. “He has been a hard worker and a good teammate, and we wish him the best in his future endeavors.”

Lewis was a Third Team All-MAAC selection each of his first two seasons. He averaged 12.5 points per game as a sophomore but was frequently inefficient, shooting just 33.4 percent from the field. Only twice last season did he make more than half of his shots.

[RELATED: Lewis favors 30-second shot clock]

Lewis thrived as a freshman, scoring 9.5 ppg while playing alongside MAAC MVP Billy Baron. Lewis upped his average by 3 points a game as a sophomore, but his shooting percentage dropped from .399 to .334 as the focal point of the Griffs’ developing offense.

Lewis could be highly effective as an outside shooter on a team that has already has a main scoring threat or two, similar to the role he played as a freshman. Canisius typically blocks players from transferring to other MAAC schools or Big 4 opponents.

The Griffs have two scholarships remaining for next season. Josiah Heath, Jeremiah Williams and Zach Lewis are out, and JUCO transfer Ronald Gombe is the only player who has signed a letter of intent.