Vanderbilt freshman Garland declares for NBA draft

Vanderbilt freshman guard Darius Garland is withdrawing from the program to prepare for the 2019 NBA Draft, the projected first-round selection announced.

"Unfortunately, I suffered a season-ending injury. After considerable deliberation with my family and medical staff, I am withdrawing from Vanderbilt this semester to prepare for the NBA draft," Garland said via Twitter.

Garland was ranked as the No. 1 point guard and No. 16 player overall in ESPN's high school recruit rankings.

The 6-foot-2 guard averaged 16.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.6 assists in five appearances with the Commodores before his meniscus injury.

"I will be forever grateful to Vanderbilt and wish the program much success for the remainder of this season and beyond."