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Speights Forgoes UF Eligibility To Enter NBA Draft

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By JOE HENDERSON | The Tampa Tribune

Published: June 12, 2008

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – University of Florida center Marreese Speights of St. Petersburg has decided to keep his name in the upcoming NBA draft and will forfeit his final two seasons of eligibility with the Gators.

The draft is June 26 in New York.

Speights entered his name in the draft on April 8 but didn't hire an agent, leaving the possibility he could return to Florida. However, his pre-draft performances elevated his stock enough to convince him to make the move.

"I had the opportunity to speak with Marreese this morning and based on the information he is receiving, he informed me of his intentions to remain in the NBA Draft," Florida head coach Billy Donovan said in a release through the university. "I completely support his decision. This is what he wants to do. I wish him nothing but the best of luck on June 26 and in the future."

Speights finished second on UF in scoring during his sophomore season, averaging 14.5 points per game. He led the Gators in rebounding with 8.1 rebounds per contest, as well as team-highs of 49 blocked shots and 10 double-doubles. He was a key reserve on the 2007 Florida team that won a second consecutive national championship.

"I want to thank Coach Donovan and the entire staff for helping me develop my game and become a better player over the past two years," Speights said.

In his two-year career, Speights averaged 9.5 points, 5.4 rebounds and blocked 64 shots.

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