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Speights Decides To Stay In Draft

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The Associated Press

Published: June 13, 2008

GAINESVILLE - Florida center Marreese Speights has decided to keep his name in the upcoming NBA draft, hiring an agent and forgoing his final two years of eligibility.

Speights told Coach Billy Donovan of his intentions Thursday.

"I completely support his decision; this is what he wants to do," Donovan said. "I wish him nothing but the best of luck on June 26 and in the future."

Speights averaged 14.5 points and 8.1 rebounds last season. He also led the Gators with 49 blocked shots and 10 double-doubles.

He announced his decision to turn pro in early April, but left open the option of returning to Florida for his junior season. He has since worked out for numerous NBA teams, and said he received enough positive feedback to make the jump to the next level.

The draft is June 26 in New York.

"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. "Even though I'm leaving the University of Florida early, I'll forever be a Gator."

Speights planned to sign with agent Andy Miller of ASM Enterprises. Miller represents close to 20 NBA players.

For his two-year career, Speights averaged 9.5 points and 5.4 rebounds, and blocked 64 shots. In his final game, the NIT semifinals, he had a career-high 18 rebounds vs. Massachusetts.

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