Drafting D.J.

Texas' consensus All-American D.J. Augustin declared today for the June 26 NBA Draft, though he hasn't hired an agent which leaves open the possibility he will stay. But "listening" to the sophomore's words, issued today through the Texas media relations department, it doesn't seem likely he will be in burnt orange next season. "I have had a great experience here at the University of Texas," Augustin said in the statement. "All I can say is ‘thank you’ to my teammates, coaching staff and fans that have supported us during my two years at Texas. I have matured a lot as a person, both on and off the court. I have dreamed of playing in the NBA since I was a little boy, and I am ready to start living this dream.” Rick Barnes has also seemingly given up on the thought of having his star player and court general back.

“We are so thankful for the opportunity to have been around an individual like D.J. for the last two years,” Barnes said in the statement. “As good as he is on the basketball court, D.J. is an even better person off the court.” Though he's considered a first-round draft pick, the one reason some thought Augustin might stay with the Longhorns is is apparent love of learning. Augustin was also an academic All-American, and with a solid cast returning next year his jump to the NBA wasn't obvious. But the Bob Cousy Award winner has spoken, and the NBA teams who aren't still playing can now begin to take an even closer look at one of the premier point guards in this year's draft.