With the deadline looming, Ohio State freshman D'Angelo Russell declared for the NBA draft on Thursday.
ESPN first reported Russell's decision Wednesday.
Russell, a 6-5 combo guard, is projected as the third overall pick in USA TODAY Sports' latest NBA mock draft projection.
Russell averaged 19.7 points, 5.7 rebounds and 5.0 assists a game for the Buckeyes and was the Big Ten's freshman of the year.
In a press conference Thursday, Russell said that it was hard to leave his teammates and coaching staff, but it was a dream of his to play in the NBA.
"People ask what position I want to play. I just want to play basketball. I'll do whatever it takes to be on the floor." -Russell #GoBucks
— Ohio State Buckeyes (@OhioStAthletics) April 23, 2015
Russell is expected to become the 10th first round draft pick to play for head coach Thad Matta at Ohio State. Matta added that coaching Russell this season was "one of the greatest moments of his life."
"(D'Angelo) has a chance to be something very special at the next level. I think this is the right decision for him." -Thad Matta #GoBucks
— Ohio State Buckeyes (@OhioStAthletics) April 23, 2015
Russell's college career ended on a sour note, finishing with nine points on 3-for-19 shooting in an NCAA tournament loss to Arizona.
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