Chris Washburn to Enter NBA Draft

Chris Washburn, North Carolina State’s 6-11 sophomore center, will give up his final two years of college eligibility to enter the National Basketball Assn. draft, Wolfpack basketball Coach Jim Valvano said Tuesday.

“I spoke Monday night with Chris’ mother, and again this morning,” Valvano said, “and Mrs. Washburn indicated his intention is to bypass his last two years of college and turn professional.”

Washburn led the Wolfpack in scoring last season with an average of 17.6 points a game and 6.7 rebounds.

An underclassman may forfeit his eligibility and put his name up for the NBA draft anytime before May 31.

In his freshman year, Washburn was suspended from the team after being charged with stealing a stereo from the dormitory room of a fellow student. He was convicted on misdemeanor charges and was sentenced to 320 hours of community service, a $1,000 fine and counseling.