Memphis' Washington declaring for NBA
ORLANDO, Fla. -- For Orlando prep phenom Darius Washington Jr., college apparently will be a two-year experience.
A month after helping guide Memphis to its first regional final in a decade, Washington announced Tuesday on his website (www.dwash.net) that he will make himself available for the NBA Draft in June.
Washington's father, Darius Washington Sr., confirmed the decision, saying his son felt the time was right.
"It's all about what Darius wants for himself," Washington Sr. told the Orlando Sentinel. "Sometimes what drives a kid might be a desire to take care of his family. He has none of that pressure in his decision.
"This will be about him. It's based on his goals ... fulfilling his dreams."
Washington could not be reached for comment. Reporters in Memphis were referred to his website.
"Playing in the NBA has been a dream of mine for as long as I can remember," Washington said in a note to his fans.
Memphis coaches were not caught off guard. Tigers Coach John Calipari and his assistants told peers at the Final Four earlier this month they expected Washington, a 6-foot sophomore point guard, to go pro.
However, there is conflicting information whether Washington will keep his amateur status leading up to the draft. Calipari told the Memphis Commercial Appeal he believed Washington "would keep all his options open," meaning he would not sign with an agent and keep open the possibility of returning to Memphis for a junior season.
"After careful consideration I am confident that I made the best decision for me," Washington's note said. "I truly appreciate the support my friends, family, coaches and the fans have given me over the years and hope they will stand by me as I enter the next stage of fulfilling my lifelong dream.
Two sources close to Calipari's program said late Tuesday they understood Washington had his mind set about turning pro. That's also the impression the point guard has given friends in Orlando.
"I knew it was coming, that he was going to test the waters and give it a wing," said Dexter Williams, an assistant coach at Edgewater High, which Washington led to the Class 6A state championship as a senior in 2004. "He feels like he is ready. I think mentally and physically he is ready and has been ready all along. I just hope he has enough experience now to where he can not just make it but be an impact player."
Calipari now will wait to see if he loses any players or up to two to the NBA. Freshman forward Shawne Williams also will test the draft. Williams' family has said he will not hire an agent until after the draft.
