Kentucky’s Washington to Enter Draft but Not Hire an Agent; Spalding Hiring Agent, Diving into NBA Draft Pool

LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) — Kentucky freshman forward PJ Washington says he will enter the NBA draft but not hire an agent, leaving open a possible return for his sophomore season.

Washington averaged 10.8 points and 5.7 rebounds this season. He is the first of several Wildcat underclassmen expected to enter the June 21 draft.

The draft combine is May 16-20 in Chicago. Players must decide by May 30 whether to remain in the draft or return to school.

Washington said in a statement Tuesday he discussed his situation with coach John Calipari. Washington says he isn't "in a hurry to make any type of decision," but Calipari "believes I should evaluate where I am right now."

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — Louisville junior forward Ray Spalding says on his Instagram account that he will hire an agent and stay in the NBA draft pool, leaving a third roster opening to fill for new Cardinals coach Chris Mack.

Spalding said after the Cardinals' NIT quarterfinal loss to Mississippi State that he planned to test the draft waters before deciding whether to return for his senior season. The 6-foot-10, 215-pound Louisville native averaged career bests of 12.3 points and 8.7 rebounds last season with 11 double-doubles. Spalding leaves the program along with graduating seniors Anas Mahmoud and Quentin Snider.

Spalding thanked many in Tuesday's Instagram post, including former Cardinals coaches Rick Pitino and David Padgett, fans, and the city "for allowing me to live out my dream and represent my city."

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