Freshman shooting guard Antonio Blakeney has decided not to continue to “test the waters” in the NBA Draft process and will return for his sophomore season, LSU announced Tuesday afternoon.
Blakeney was required to submit paperwork to the NBA by April 24, but decided to not go forward with the pre-draft process and will partake in LSU’s spring strength and conditioning drills on campus.
“After consulting with my coaches and with my family, I have decided to return to LSU for my sophomore season,” Blakeney said in a press release. “I can further improve my skill set in different areas to become even more effective for my team in the future.”
Blakeney, a two-time SEC Freshman of the Week, averaged 12.6 points per game and 3.4 rebounds in his rookie season. The Sarasota, Florida, native started 24 of 33 games as a Tiger, and averaged 30.8 minutes among all contests.
“Although I finished the year strong and posted a solid season, it is in my best interest to return and continue to improve as I strive and prepare to be the best I can be,” Blakeney said. “This will also allow me to continue with my schoolwork and continue to move forward on my college degree.”
Blakeney scored 20 or more points in eight games during the 2015-16 season.
“We’re excited about Antonio Blakeney’s decision to return for his sophomore season at LSU,” said LSU coach Johnny Jones in the release. “His return will automatically give us another prolific scorer and the experience factor that is needed as we continue moving forward for next season. We will work diligently to help him continue to improve this offseason as he strives to be the best.”