Dijon Thompson confirmed that he will remain at UCLA for his
senior season Wednesday, withdrawing his name from consideration
for the upcoming NBA Draft.
The 6-foot-7 swingman’s decision comes as no surprise.
Even as he announced his intentions to evaluate his draft status
in April, Thompson, who attended the Chicago Pre-Draft Camp this
past week, said that he expected to return to Westwood and fulfill
his collegiate eligibility.
"By going to Chicago I was able to get evaluated," said
Thompson, UCLA’s leading scorer last year. "I was advised
that one year back in school, to develop my body and touch-up on
some skills, will put me in a better position next year to
hopefully get into the first round."
Thompson, a two-year starter for the Bruins, returns to a logjam
in the backcourt. UCLA coach Ben Howland will have freshmen Arron
Afflalo and Josh Shipp at the wing position in addition to
returning seniors Thompson, Brian Morrison and Janou Rubin.
Howland said that the experience in Chicago benefited
Thompson.
"He has made overall improvement since our season ended,"
Howland said. "He’s been lifting consistently and has worked very
hard at improving his game."
Had Thompson decided to remain in the draft and hire an agent,
he would have been the second Bruin to depart this offseason.
Freshman Trevor Ariza entered the Draft in April and signed with an
agent, making it impossible for him to play in college again.
Compiled by staff reports