Reynolds To Return To 'Nova For Senior Year, Withdraws From NBA Draft

June 10, 2009 12:09 p.m. EST

Villanova, PA (AHN) - The Villanova Wildcats got an unexpected boost Tuesday in its bid for a national championship as Scottie Reynolds decided to withdraw his name from the 2009 NBA Draft and return to school for his senior season.

Reynolds, best remembered for his game-winning shot that enabled Villanova to beat Pittsburgh in the East Regional final and advance into the Final Four, declared for the draft in April.

But he did not hire an agent.

The Wildcats star guard went through workouts for three teams in Houston before making the decision to return. He also paid a visit to the Washington Wizards.

His decision to withdraw from the draft was reportedly brought about by the player's prospects wherein he was considered to be a possible second-round pick.

First-round selections in the June 25 NBA draft sign guaranteed contracts while second-round choices need to make the team to get paid.

During the 2008-09 season, Reynolds averaged 15.2 points for the Wildcats, who advanced to the national semifinals for the first time since winning the title in 1985.

Villanova lost to eventual champ North Carolina.

Reynolds, listed 6-foot-2, ranks 15th on the school's all-time scoring list with 1,620 points.

He is also one of only two players in Big East conference history to score 40 or more points in game more than once.

His return could cause some problems for the congested but talented Wildcats backcourt.

Villanova has World U games finalist Corey Fisher, who has established himself as one of the Big East best dribble slashers.

Along with Reynolds, Corey Stokes and Reggie Redding will also return to the Wildcats' lineup.

Also joining the Wildcats' backcourt is incoming freshman guard Malik Wayans. Wayans, listed 6-feet, is a McDonald's All-American from Philadelphia Roman Catholic.