LAWRENCE, Kan., April 19 (UPI) -- Kansas forward Drew Gooden announced Friday he will bypass his senior season in order to enter the NBA draft.
Gooden led the nation in double-doubles with 25 and averaged 19.8 points and 11.4 rebounds as Kansas reached its first Final Four since 1993. The 6-10, 230-lb Gooden was named co-Player of the Year in the nation by the NABC and was a first team All-American selection.
"This is a dream of mine and it is so close to coming true," Gooden said. "I will always be grateful to Kansas and always be a Jayhawk a heart."
Kansas coach Roy Williams also appeared at the news conference and indicated that the process was lengthy because he had just turned over to Gooden information from approximately 10 NBA teams about his star forward's draft chances. While Gooden said the information was a factor, it was not the main reason for his decision.
"The main focal point of my decision was my own," Gooden said. "I am not giving up my college education. I am just giving up another year of eligibility."
Gooden finished his career with 1,526 points and 902 rebounds.
