The Austin American-Statesman reports that Texas freshman forward Tristan Thompson plans to enter the NBA Draft.
Thompson finished his first college season strong, and though he needs to add muscle and add to his game, he'll be an intriguing prospect and could come off the board anywhere between 7-15. The Cavaliers' second first-round selection will be no lower than 11th pending results of the May 17 draft lottery.
With post players Jared Sullinger and Perry Jones deciding to stay in school, Thompson's stock jumped. The prevailing thought was that he planned to stay in school at least one season to play alongside fellow Canadian and his Findlay (Nev.) Prep high school teammate, lighting-quick point guard Myck Kabongo.
The paper reported that Thompson, who's listed at 6'8, said at the Longhorns’ annual awards banquet last week that if he did enter the draft, it would be with an agent.
Thompson was named a first-team freshman All-American by the U.S. Basketball Writers Association after averaging 13.1 points, 7.8 rebounds a game and a Big-12 best 2.4 blocked shots per game.
Another Longhorn, small forward Jordan Hamilton, has yet to announce his decision. He figures as a mid-first round pick if he chooses to leave school. Freshman guard Cory Joseph, another part of Texas' Canada-Findlay connection, reportedly plans to stay in school.
--Zac Jackson
