Edey declares for NBA draft with option to return to school

— National player of the year Zach Edey of Purdue has declared for the NBA, but will keep open the option of returning to school next season. The 7-foot-4 center, who led Purdue to a Big Ten regular-season title last season by averaging 22.3 points, 12.9 rebounds, 2.1 blocks and 1.5 assists per game, has one season of college eligibility remaining. Though we fell short of our ultimate goal this season, I loved every minute of it.” He added: “I will evaluate my future after going through the process and look forward to what’s next.” Edey became the first player from Purdue to win the national player of the year award since Glenn Robinson in 1994. Edey is the first player in NCAA history to finish a season with at least 750 points, 400 rebounds, 70 blocks and 50 assists in a season — since blocks became an official stat.