Texas Duo Augustin, Abrams Bolt Longhorns For NBA Draft

Austin, TX (AHN) - Texas star point guard D.J. Augustin on Thursday declared himself eligible for the NBA draft in June, foregoing his final two seasons with the Longhorns.

The sophomore averaged 19.2 points and 5.8 assists while making the All-America selection this past season. Observers said that Augustin, who opted not to sign with an agent yet, is a first-round draft pick but could find himself ranked below freshman playmaker Derrick Rose.

"I have dreamed of playing in the NBA since I was a little boy, and I am ready to start living this dream," Augustin told the Associated Press.

"We are so thankful for the opportunity to have been around an individual like D.J. for the last two years," coach Rick Barnes said. "As good as he is on the basketball court, D.J. is an even better person off the court."

The Longhorns also stand to lose point guard A.J. Abrams, who also declared his availability for the pros. The 5-foot-11 Abrams led Texas with 118 three-pointers last season and posted a 16.5 point-per-game average.

"Right now, I have the opportunity to test the waters to see where I stand," the junior guard said. "If I'm comfortable with where I feel I'll be drafted, I'll stay in the draft. If not, I'll be back for my senior year."