Syracuse (WSYR-TV) -- Syracuse University sophomore guard Dion Waiters announced Monday that he will be entering his name into the NBA Draft this spring.
The announcement comes just days after SU lost in the Elite Eight matchup against Ohio State.
Waiters is pretty much doing what we all expected. He’s giving up his final two years in college to enter the NBA Draft.
Waiters released a statement saying that he’s following his dream of becoming a professional basketball player, so there’s no chance that he’s coming back.
In his official statement, Waiters thanked his coaches, teammates and the fans. He then Tweeted the same.
His position coach Gerry McNamara reacted to the news, telling NewsChannel 9, “It’s been a pleasure coaching Dion and watching his development on and off the court. He will be deeply missed and we’re all excited for him to pursue his lifelong dream of playing at the next level."
Waiters was named sixth Man of the Year in the Big East Conference and is expected to be a mid-to-late first round selection at this point.
Expect a starting backcourt of Brandon Triche and Michael Carter-Williams next season at Syracuse.
There's still no word on the future of Fab Melo. He has until April 10 to make his NBA decision. That’s the day before National Signing Day for high school seniors.
Waiters' statement in regard to his decision to enter the NBA Draft:
"I've decided to pursue my dream of becoming a professional basketball player by entering my name in the NBA Draft this spring. I plan on signing with an agent.
"I want to thank my coaches and my teammates. I've had an amazing experience at Syracuse University.
"I also want to thank all the Syracuse basketball fans. They are the best in college basketball."
--Syracuse University sophomore guard Dion Waiters.
