Klay Thompson Staying In 2011 NBA Draft, Will Forgo Senior Year

It's not unexpected, but is last minute: Klay Thompson will stay in the 2011 NBA Draft and forgo his senior year at Washington State. Thompson declared for the draft to test the waters and see where his stock stood while hoping for a first round grade, and it appears he heard what he wanted. Listening to his press conference to announce the decision to enter the draft, it was clear Thompson's ultimate goal, and dream, was to play in the NBA, and he was prepared to make the jump if the right situation presented itself.

The news was tweeted by just about everyone moments ago, so we'll go with Vince Grippi because the local guy favoritism is strong here at CougCenter.

And so it ends. I never expected Thompson to come back and have heard for quite some time he'd be staying in the draft. It shouldn't come as much surprise, either. Many are projecting Thompson as a first-rounder, which would get him the coveted guaranteed contract that comes along with it. Even with a lockout looming, it's tough to pass-up the chance to be a first round draft pick and live-out a dream.

We'll be back with more later because I have a bone to pick, but it has nothing to do with Thompson, who I thought handled the situation well, all things considered. Best of luck to Thompson in the draft. I now have a reason to pay close attention to the NBA and the circus that is the draft.