University of Miami sophomore center Tito Horford,...
University of Miami sophomore center Tito Horford, 7 feet 1 inch, 245 pounds, declared himself eligible for June’s NBA draft, a move that surprised his coach and teammates.
The 22-year-old Dominican, who has only been playing basketball since the 10th grade, averaged 14.2 points and 9.0 rebounds last season for the 17-14 Hurricanes.
Until recently, there hadn’t been any discussion about Horford turning pro, Miami Coach Bill Foster said.
“It was the furthest thing from my mind,” Foster said. “On paper, 99 out of 100 guys that follow basketball at all would say it’s not a good decision.”
Billy Cunningham, a consultant for Miami’s NBA expansion team, said he was disappointed by Horford’s decision.
“I hope he goes back to get his degree,” Cunningham said. “And I really hope it works out. But I really doubt it.”
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