LSU freshman forward Jarell Martin told reporters Monday he will return for his sophomore season after meeting with family, friends and his trainer.
“It was a big decision,” Martin said. “Guys are very eager to go play in the league and that’s a great experience. But I felt like I have some things to improve in before going off to the next level.”
Martin, a McDonald’s All-American out of Madison Prep, was named Louisiana’s Mr. Basketball in 2013.
He suffered an early season ankle sprain that impeded progress, but rebounded to average 10.2 points per game while adjusting to a role on the wing.
“I don’t feel like my game is complete or where it needs to be to get to [the NBA],” Martin said. “I need to improve on some things before I just go on to the next level.”
LSU coach Johnny Jones was focused on his team’s first round NIT matchup with San Francisco and said he will address the future of all his players when the Tigers’ season ends.
When asked about Martin’s comments, Jones kept the same demeanor.
“That would be exciting news at the appropriate time,” Jones said. “That’s not something I want him thinking about. But I can’t come in here and hold you guys up and tell them not to ask those type of questions.”