The Gonzaga Bulldogs appeared to receive some surprising news about point guard Mario Saint-Supery. The Spanish backcourt player will leave the program after one season to return to his home country to play for Valencia.

Saint-Supery was a rising standout in the EuroLeague before he came stateside to play for Gonzaga, which earned him the nickname "El Principito" (the little prince).

Saint-Supery was a heady player for Mark Few, who averaged over eight points and nearly four assists per game. He was also a floor spacer, shooting 40% from long distance.

Reports indicate that Valencia wanted to replace an important guard of their own, as Sergio De Larrea was selected in the NBA draft a few weeks ago.

The news itself might not be the most painful part of the story for the Bulldogs, as much as the timing. The transfer portal is closed at this point of the calendar and there aren't many avenues available to Gonzaga to replace a player of Saint-Supery's caliber.

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This article originally appeared on College Sports Wire: Mario Saint-Supery leaves Gonzaga for European pro league