EAST LANSING, Mich. (Apr. 14, 2014) — It never was a question of if but of when. Michigan State today announced that sophomore guard Gary Harris will forego his final two seasons of eligibility and enter the 2014 NBA Draft.
In a statement released by the university, Harris said, “The last two years have been the best of my life, but it’s time to follow my dream and declare for the NBA Draft.” He also added, “I have a lifetime of memories, including some incredible games in some incredible places, NCAA Tournaments, and cutting down the nets after a Big Ten Tournament Championship. But most important are the friendships I’ve developed with my teammates. These are bonds that will last forever, especially the guys in my class. I can’t imagine a better group of guys to be around.”
Harris averaged 16.7 points, 4.0 rebounds and 2.7 assists as a sophomore and was named to the First-Team All-Big Ten and All-Big Ten Defensive teams. Harris was voted the Spartans’ MVP by both the media and his teammates.
In just two seasons, Harris became the 45th player in Michigan State history to score 1,000 career points (1,205) and just the third to do it in two seasons (Mike Robinson, Magic Johnson).
“Not only do I fully support and celebrate Gary’s decision, but after my information gathering process, I recommend it,” said MSU head coach Tom Izzo. “I expect Gary to be a high pick in the draft, but more importantly, I know that he is well prepared for a long career.”
Harris is the fifth Spartan to declare for the draft early under coach Tom Izzo, joining Shannon Brown (2006, Jr.), Zach Randolph (2001, Fr.), Jason Richardson (2001, So.) and Marcus Taylor (2002, So.).
