UCLA's Mbah a Moute to enter NBA Draft

LOS ANGELES -- Luc Richard Mbah a Moute is the latest UCLA player intending to leave early for the NBA.

The junior forward said Friday he will enter the draft. The 6-foot-8 Mbah a Moute won't hire an agent right away, keeping him eligible to return to UCLA for his senior year.

"I feel that it is in my best interest to see what the NBA has to offer," Mbah a Moute said. "I have had a wonderful experience at UCLA."

Mbah a Moute joins All-American freshman Kevin Love and sophomore Russell Westbrook, who announced Thursday their intentions to go pro.

Mbah a Moute averaged 8.8 points and 6.0 rebounds per game during the regular season. The 21-year-old native of Cameroon was part of three consecutive Final Four teams at UCLA.

Mbah a Moute was hampered by a sprained ankle throughout this year's tournament that ended when UCLA lost to Memphis 78-63 in the national semifinals.

UCLA coach Ben Howland said Mbah a Moute will have to work on his jump shot, but believes his reputation as an active defender will pay off.

"Luc is a great rebounder and is an outstanding defender," Howland said. "He's the most versatile defensive player I've ever coached. He has been an integral part of the success that our program has achieved over the last three seasons. I fully support him exploring his opportunities to play in the NBA."