Illini Junior Enters NBA Draft

Illinois junior Shaun Pruitt wants to test the NBA draft landscape. The 6-10 center declares himself eligible for the 2007 NBA draft Tuesday. Pruitt, the only Illini player to start every game the past two years, averaged 11.4 points per game and 7.5 rebounds per game last season. He was a third team All-Big Ten selection. “After much thought, I’ve decided to enter the draft,” Pruitt said. “I feel I’ve established myself as one of the top big men in the Big Ten and I want to evaluate my ability to compete at the next level." Pruitt has decided not to hire an agent which means can withdraw his name and return to Illinois without losing eligibility for his senior season. "I am aware of the NCAA rules regarding the draft. I have not hired an agent, and with the help of my father, I will communicate with NBA teams and arrange workouts,” said Pruitt.