Kansas forward Dedric Lawson will skip his senior year and enter the NBA draft, the latest move in what should be a significant overhaul of the Jayhawks’ roster for next season.
Lawson transferred from Memphis and sat out last season, then led the Big 12 with 19.4 points and 10.3 rebounds this season. He was voted All-Big 12 and third-team All-American while finishing No. 2 nationally and third in school history with 22 double-doubles.
“Dedric had such a great year. There are not very many players who have played at Kansas or players that I have coached that average 19 points and 10-plus rebounds,” coach Bill Self said. “I feel like it is in his best interest to use this year as a springboard into his professional future.”
Most draft experts believe Lawson is a second-round talent.
His brother, K.J. Lawson, and backup guard Charlie Moore already have announced plans to transfer. Lagerald Vick is gone and center Udoka Azubuike and shooting guard Quentin Grimes are also considering the draft, though most draft experts believe both could use more time in college.
Azubuike, one of the best back-to-the-basket big men in the country, sustained a season-ending hand injury. Grimes showed flashes of potential but was plagued by inconsistency as a freshman.