The Daily News has learned that senior Theron Smith will not return to the 2003-2004 Ball State men's basketball team. Smith, who sat out all but three games of the 2002-2003 campaign with a knee injury, has declared that he will enter the NBA Draft.
According to Chris Taylor in the Athletics Communications office, Smith is currently in discussions when it comes to signing an agent.
In a press release sent to media Saturday afternoon, Smith said, "This was a very tough decision. It was a decision that my family and I decided it was time to make.-á
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"I have enjoyed my four years at Ball State University," Smith said.-á"The people at Ball State, the Muncie community and the fans of Ball State basketball made this decision a hard one.-á With the chance to pursue my dream of playing professional basketball, I believe the opportunity is now."
In the same press release Ball State head coach Tim Buckley was quoted as saying, "Our staff, players and the Ball State basketball family wish Theron well in his pursuit of professional basketball."
Taylor told the Daily News Saturday evening that both Smith and Buckley declined to make any further comments than those included in Saturday's press release.
Smith had one year of eligibility remaining after claiming a red shirt status with this season's knee injury. After playing three games in the Top of the World Classic, Smith averaged 15 points and six rebounds this season.
Last season, only one player in the entire nation had more double-double's than Smith's 23. For the 2001-2002 season, Smith averaged 19 points and 10 rebounds.
Turn to Monday's issue of the Daily News for a complete look at Smith's decision.
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