Ohio State fans’ hope grew as time passed without an announcement that star guard D’Angelo Russell would remain in school for his sophomore season. That will not happen, as ESPN reported Wednesday that Russell will forgo his remaining eligibility and enter the 2015 NBA Draft.
“This was a hard decision because I knew I could come back and play with my teammates who I love, and to be coached by coach Thad Matta again would have been awesome, but at the same time I wanted to pursue my dream of playing in the NBA,” Russell told ESPN. “I know what I am capable of and the sky’s the limit with effort. I know I have a lot to work on.”
Russell averaged 19.3 points, 5.7 rebounds and 5.0 assists for Ohio State this season. On a generally mediocre team, the 6-foot-5 guard carried the Buckeyes to the NCAA Tournament Round of 32.
He is expected to be a top-five pick in the draft.
