Dominic James Declares for NBA Draft

April 26, 2007

MILWAUKEE - Sophomore guard Dominic James has made his declaration for the NBA draft, but is not planning to hire an agent.

The deadline for individuals to declare for the NBA draft is April 29. By not signing with an agent, James maintains the ability to withdraw his name from draft consideration and return to Marquette. The NBA Draft is scheduled for June 28. The deadline to withdraw from the NBA Draft is June 18.

"This is an opportunity that I want to take advantage of," James said. "Coach Crean and I talked about our goals at the beginning of the season and one was the option of being drafted. The time is now to take advantage of that option."

Head coach Tom Crean is supportive of James decision to explore his future in the NBA.

"We've been very deliberate and thoughtful through this process. Information has been collected from the right people and we are 100% supportive of Dominic's decision. You have to give your players a chance to chase their dreams. If not, you aren't building your program the right way or doing the right thing," Crean said.

In 2006-07, James was an All-America honorable mention selection by the Associated Press, becoming the 11th student-athlete all time for Marquette to be recognized as an AP All-American. He was also a member of the BIG EAST All-Conference First Team as a sophomore. James led the Golden Eagles in scoring, averaging 14.9 points per game. He also led the team and ranked fourth in the BIG EAST with 167 assists and was second on the MU squad and fourth in the conference with 64 steals.

"Right now, it's a win, win situation," James added. "I can work and get better in the off-season. Hopefully, I can be a pro someday. If that time isn't now, I can come back to Marquette and be a better player for me and my team."

Marquette owns a 44-21 record and has been selected to play in two NCAA Tournaments in James' first two seasons as a Golden Eagle.