Adams declares for NBA Draft

Pitt center Steven Adams will sign with an agent and enter the 2013 NBA Draft, the University announced Tuesday.

Adams leaves Pitt after one year with the Panthers. He was recruited by Jamie Dixon as a raw but talented prospect from Rotorua, New Zealand, and Rivals.com ranked him as a five-star prospect and the No. 5 overall recruit in the class of 2012.

"In discussing options with my family and Coach Dixon, I feel that it is in my best interest to declare for the NBA Draft," Adams said in an official statement. "I want to thank everyone at Pitt including my teammates, coaching staff, the administration and the fans who have all supported me over the last year."

Following Pitt's loss to Wichita State in the NCAA Tournament, Adams stated that he intended to return to Pitt for his sophomore season.

"After talking with Steven and his family, we fully support him in this decision," Pitt Coach Jamie Dixon said. "We support him in choosing to pursue his dreams and in having the opportunity to provide for his family back in New Zealand. We will continue to stay involved in the process and he will always be a part of the Pitt Basketball family."

As Pitt's starting center this past season, Adams averaged 7.2 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. He led Pitt in blocked shots (65), rebounding (6.5 rpg), and field goal percentage (.571). He scored in double figures six times, grabbed at least 10 rebounds in five games, and recorded two double-doubles on the season.

For his performance, Adams was named to the Big East All-Rookie Team.

Adams was the second departure from the Pitt basketball team announced on Tuesday, following the announced transfer of junior guard Trey Zeigler.

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