Dunleavy, Jacobsen decide to move forward

DURHAM, N.C., June 20 (UPI) -- All-America swingmen Mike Dunleavy of Duke and Casey Jacobsen of Stanford, both of whom would be seniors next winter, have decided to stick to their decisions to forego their remaining college eligibility to enter next week's NBA Draft.

Wednesday was the last day for declared underclassmen to withdraw their names, and both said they had made the most difficult decisions of their young lives.

"It was a hard decision to make, but after going back and forth, I have decided to pursue my dream of becoming a professional basketball player," Dunleavy said in a statement released by Duke's Sports Information Office.

"After a thorough investigation, I believe that I will go reasonably high in the draft, and I am excited about starting my professional career. I have very much enjoyed my years at Duke. It is a wonderful university. I have made good friends, had great experiences and received a world-class education."

Dunleavy had per-game averages of 17.3 points, 7.2 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 2.3 steals and 0.7 blocked shots as a junior in 2001-02. He became the 50th Duke player to reach 1,000 career points, and increased his career scoring total to 1,371 points, 28th all-time at Duke.

"I am appreciative of the support that Coach K (Krzyzewski) and his staff have given me throughout my time at Duke."

Jacobsen ends his Cardinal career as the school's third all-time leading scorer with 1,723 points. His name appears 39 times in the Stanford record book.

Jacobsen gained numerous honors during his three-year career on "The Farm." He was a three-time All-Pac-10 selection, and this past year led the Pac-10 in scoring at 21.9 points per game.

"I feel like this is the right time to move on," Jacobsen said. "This is what I really, truly want to do. I know this is a risk, but it's one I'm willing to make."

Jacobsen also led the Cardinal to three straight appearances in the NCAA Tournament. During that time, the Cardinal chalked up a record of 78-17. The Cardinal also won two Pac-10 titles during his time at Stanford.

The NBA Draft is slated for June 26.