North Carolina forward Kennedy Meeks withdrew his name from NBA draft consideration on Wednesday and will return for his senior season.
The 6-foot-9, 265-pound Meeks has been a three-year starter for the Tar Heels. He was slowed by a knee injury last season, missing seven games, and averaged 9.2 points and 5.9 rebounds in 28 contests.
"I'm thankful I had the chance to explore my draft options, but I'm excited about the opportunity to rejoin my teammates and work toward having another outstanding season at UNC," Meeks said in a statement. "I appreciate the support my coaches and teammates gave me during this process as we gathered information about my professional opportunities at this time. The feedback on what I have to work on so that I can have a great senior year, help my team have a great season and be ready to take that next step is invaluable."
Meeks, 21, did not get an invitation to the NBA draft combine. Players who haven't signed with agents have until May 25 to withdraw their names and still maintain college eligibility.
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"Kennedy did the right thing in taking the time to see where he stood with the NBA draft at this point in his career, an opportunity we encourage all of our players to take," North Carolina coach Roy Williams said. "I think Kennedy's made the right decision in returning to school to finish his degree and put himself in better position toward playing professional basketball, which is his dream. If he works hard this summer, he can have a big-time senior season and also help our team reach its goals."
Meeks' return leaves forward Justin Jackson, who was invited to the combine, as the lone North Carolina player still going through the draft process.
