Duke's Jayson Tatum to enter NBA draft after freshman season

Jayson Tatum is heading to the NBA after his one season at Duke.

The school made the announcement Wednesday.

Tatum averaged 16.8 points and 7.3 rebounds for the Blue Devils, who won the ACC tournament title before falling to South Carolina in the second round of the NCAA tournament. He is expected to be one of the top selections in June.

“I’m excited to take the next step in pursuing my lifelong dream of playing basketball at the highest possible level,” Tatum said in statement. “With that said, I’ve loved my time at Duke. The Brotherhood is a real thing and I’ll always be part of the bond between former, current and future Duke players. I want to thank my teammates, coaches, family and friends for the unwavering support I’ve received as I pursue my dream.”

Tatum becomes the 10th Duke player to enter the draft after their freshman season. It's anticipated forward Harry Giles will become the 11th before the deadline. Luke Kennard and Grayson Allen are underclassmen who could also leave for the NBA before the April 23 deadline.

“I have absolutely loved coaching Jayson Tatum," Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski said in a statement. “His skill set and work ethic will make him a star in the NBA. Whichever team selects him will be getting a humble, thoughtful and talented young man whom we are proud to call a member of the Duke Basketball brotherhood.”