Texas freshman forward Jaxson Hayes will declare for the NBA draft and hire an agent, the school announced Thursday.
"I'm so appreciative of coach Shaka Smart for pushing me every day to improve and mature, both on the basketball court and as a person," Hayes said in a statement. "I would also like to thank everyone else who has helped support me. Lastly, thank you to all the Longhorn fans and the people of Cincinnati ...
"With that being said, I have always dreamed about playing in the NBA. Now that I have the chance to realize that dream, I would like to pursue that opportunity."
Hayes is expected to be a lottery pick in June's draft in multiple projections, including ESPN's.
The reigning Big 12 Freshman of the year averaged 10 points, five rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game with the Longhorns.
