It's difficult not to feel empathy for Ron Steele.

At the close of the 2005-06 season, the Alabama standout was considered arguably the top point guard in the nation - and a certain first-round pick.

However, numerous knee injuries forced him to miss part of the 2006-07 campaign and sit out all of last season while rehabbing. He finally looked to be back to his old form when he put up 23 points and 10 assists a few weeks ago in a win against Georgia Tech.

Now his career is over. Steele has decided to forgo the rest of his senior campaign.

Alabama coach Mark Gottfried made the announcement on Monday night.

Steele, who was averaging 12.9 points and 3.7 assists this season, has missed the past two games with plantar fascitis.

"This is a very difficult time for Ron as his injuries have been very unfortunate and difficult for him," Alabama coach Mark Gottfried said in a statement. "I'll always be indebted to his contributions to our program and the University of Alabama and wish him the very best in his future endeavors."

Steele, who was considered one of the nation's top point guards two years ago, still finished his career as one of just two players with more than 1,000 points and 400 assists. He's also one of the classiest kids in the country.