Iowa State commit Malou to explore professional options

DES MOINES, Iowa - Iowa State recruit Emmanuel Malou has filed the paperwork necessary to enter the NBA draft but has not hired an agent, preserving his college eligibility.

Cyclones spokesman Matt Shoultz confirmed Malou's decision on Monday.

The 6-foot-9 Malou was the highlight of coach Steve Prohm's first recruiting class. He averaged 14.7 points, 8.5 rebounds and 2.6 blocks as a freshman for Yuba College in California before transferring to Des Moines Area Community College to focus on academics.

Malou, who turned down Kansas, Arizona and others in favor of Iowa State, was expected to be a starter for the Cyclones if his grades are in order.

Iowa State lost front court players Georges Niang, Jameel McKay and Abdel Nader to graduation.