Speights leaving Florida early to test NBA waters

GAINESVILLE, Fla. -- Florida center Marreese Speights declared himself eligible for the NBA Draft Tuesday, though he will not hire an agent and is keeping open the possibility of returning to the Gators for his junior season.

The 6-foot-10 Speights averaged 14.5 points and a team-leading 8.1 rebounds this season, showing touch around the basket and a consistent jumper. He also had some glaring weaknesses, most notably his lack of stamina, a penchant for committing silly fouls and lapses on defense.

"Marreese has informed me that he would like to explore his future options in the NBA," Gators coach Billy Donovan said. "I will do whatever I can to help Marreese gather all necessary information to make an educated decision."