Utah's Kuzma declares for NBA draft, won't hire agent

Utah may need to replace its leading scorer for next season after the NBA draft.

Utes forward Kyle Kuzma announced he will enter his name into the upcoming NBA draft, according to Kyle Goon of The Salt Lake Tribune. As a junior, Kuzma led Utah in scoring and rebounding last season with 16.4 points and 9.3 rebounds over 29 games.

Kuzma said the decision was tough, and a blessing from Utah head coach Larry Krystkowiak made it that much easier to explore his draft potential.

"In short he really just said, 'It's a great thing if you come back, but if you get drafted, that wouldn't necessarily be a bad thing too,'" Kuzma said. "All the coaches are happy that I'm having this opportunity to explore my opportunities. It's all positive vibes from everybody."

Along with his declaration, Kuzma won't sign with an agent, meaning he has the option of returning to the Utes for his senior season should he not be satisfied with his pro chances prior to the draft.