Duke's Tyus Jones declares for the NBA draft

Final Four Most Outstanding Player Tyus Jones becomes the third freshman off Duke's national title team to enter the NBA draft.

The school made the announcement Wednesday morning.

"Tyus could not have done a better job for us this past year," Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski said. "We're so very happy for him and his family to have the opportunity to declare for the draft. He is projected to be a first-round pick. He's going to get a lot better, but people have already seen him and know how he handles himself, especially in pressure situations and in the biggest games. He comes through like a champion! I loved coaching him, and I believe he'll be an outstanding professional. At this time, I think is so appropriate for him to take advantage of this opportunity."

Jones, a native of Apple Valley, Minn., averaged 11.8 points, 5.6 assists, 3.5 rebounds and 1.5 steals a game.

"I am faced with the tough decision of returning to a place I love or pursuing my next dream," Jones said. "With the support and guidance of my family, my coaches, my teammates, and Duke University, I have decided to start my professional career. Even though I am entering the NBA Draft, I will forever be a Duke Blue Devil."

Jahlil Okafor and Justise Winslow already announced their intentions to enter the draft. Jones' departure makes guard Grayson Allen the only freshman remaining on the team from Duke's championship roster.

Paste BN projects Jones as a mid-first rounder, 21st to the Toronto Raptors.

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