UConn freshman Stephon Castle is declaring for the NBA draft

STORRS, Conn. (AP) – UConn freshman Stephon Castle has entered his name in the NBA draft, becoming the fifth Husky starter to not less than consider continuing his profession after last competing for an NCAA championship in Connecticut.

UConn and coach Dan Hurley confirmed the decision on Friday on social media after it was first reported by ESPN.

“No novice has had the same impact on VICTORY as this Master… His combination of talent, work ethic and humility… AND GREAT parents!!” Hurley published.

The 6-foot-4 guard averaged 11.1 points, 4.7 rebounds and a couple of.9 assists in his only season as a Husky, often taking over defensive assignments to eliminate the opposing team’s top player.

He was much more impressive in the Final Four, scoring 21 points in UConn’s semifinal victory over Alabama and scoring 15 points in a victory over Purdue in the national championship game.

Castle becomes the second UConn player to enter the draft after his freshman yr, joining Andre Drummond, who was chosen ninth overall by the Pistons in 2012.

Featured Stories

The announcement comes a day after UConn forward Alex Karaban declared for the draft but said he would retain his college eligibility, allowing him to make a final decision after completing pre-draft workouts.

Castle and 7-2 sophomore center Donvan Clingan, who declared for the draft last week, are expected to be chosen in the lottery.

UConn’s other two starters, All-American guard Tristen Newton, the Final Four’s most eminent player, and graduate transfer Cam Spencer, a high-scoring guard who averaged 14.3 points, are not any longer college-eligible and are also draft prospects.