Shavlik stays in the NBA draft pool
Due to technical difficulties, we weren't able to get this posted on our Web site's home page, but for those checking the blogs, here's a preview of what's coming in tomorrow's paper on Shavlik Randolph's future:
Staff report
Shavlik Randolph will take his chances in the NBA Draft rather than return to Duke for his senior season.
Randolph informed the Blue Devils coaching staff Tuesday afternoon that he would not withdraw his name before the 5 p.m. deadline for early entrants. The grandson of former N.C. State All-American Ronnie Shavlik is not expected to be selected during the draft's two rounds, according to most mock drafts.
His parents supported his decision to remain draft eligible so long as he promised to complete his work toward a college degree, his father, Kenny Randolph, said Tuesday.
If Shavlik Randolph is not drafted and does not pay an agent, he could still return to school. He must inform Duke within 30 days after the draft. Or he could try to make an NBA roster as a free agent, compete in a developmental league or look abroad for professional basketball opportunities.
The 6-foot-10, 240-pound Randolph was the subject of a heated recruiting battle between Duke, North Carolina and N.C. State when he was at Raleigh Broughton. But he's struggled with injuries and illness since arriving at Duke, where he's averaged 6.3 points, 4.3 rebound and 1.4 blocks a game over a three-year career.
Randolph could not be reached for comment.
_ Jeff Carlton