By JOHN PAVIA
Photo via: msuspartans.com
Special to ZAGSBLOG
Michigan State sophomore guard Gary Harris has declared for the 2014 NBA Draft today, first reported by Gary Parrish.
“I’d like to thank everyone at MSU for their incredible support,” Harris stated. “Coach [Tom] Izzo, Coach [Dwayne] Stephens, Coach [Dane] Fife and Coach [Mike Garland] have all taught me so much about basketball, but also helped me develop as a man. But it’s not just the coaches. Everyone around the program, and throughout the university, has made this an amazing two years. It’s the reason that I plan to complete my Michigan State degree down the road.
“This was not an easy decision; just like last season, I had to make a tough decision,” he continued. “There hasn’t been a single day where I regretted my decision to return for my sophomore season. It was the right decision for me and I’m better prepared for a successful NBA career because of it. On top of that, I have another season of memories from being around this year’s team. But now it’s time to chase my lifelong dream of playing in the NBA.”
“Not only do I fully support and celebrate Gary’s decision, but after my information gathering process, I recommend it,” Izzo said. “I expect Gary to be a high pick in the draft, but more importantly, I know that he is well prepared for a long career.
The 6-foot-4 Harris, who is currently slotted as the 13th pick on Draft Express, averaged 16.7 points and four rebounds per game this year for the Spartans who reached the Elite Eight before losing to Connecticut, who would end up being the national champions.
“His game is smooth,” one NBA scout told SNY.tv. “He’s a better athlete than he first appears. He has a nice stroke and plays both ends of the floor. He’s a good shooter and good driver. He’s a good kid, team-first and has been taught the right way. Should go in the middle of the first round.”
