Memphis State’s Hardaway Leaving School

All-American Anfernee Hardaway of Memphis State announced Wednesday that he is forgoing his final season of eligibility to make himself available for the NBA draft.

“Well, I made the decision last night,” Hardaway said during a news conference. “It has been lingering in my head for quite some time. I have been off by myself thinking about the decision, and it did affect my play during the last few weeks of the season. I feel a lot better now that I have made the decision.”

Hardaway, twice named player of the year in the Great Midwest Conference, averaged 22.8 points, 8.5 rebounds and 6.5 assists in leading Memphis State to a 20-12 record and a second consecutive berth in the NCAA tournament.

Memphis State lost during the first round to Western Kentucky.

“We would love to have him back here with this basketball team, but he has done a lot for Memphis State and for the city of Memphis both with his play and with the way he has handled the situation,” Memphis State Coach Larry Finch said.

Hardaway said he discussed turning pro with his mother, grandmother and Finch.

Hardaway has been projected as a lottery pick. In 1992, the 6-foot-7 swingman led the Tigers to a 23-11 season that ended in the NCAA tournament’s round of eight.

Memphis State, ranked eighth before the preseason, didn’t get on track this season. The Tigers lost sophomore David Vaughn to a knee injury in the first game, allowing teams to double-team Hardaway.