April 18, 2009

LEXINGTON, Ky. – Kentucky sophomore Patrick Patterson has submitted his name to the National Basketball Association for its June draft, but will not hire an agent, leaving open the possibility to return to Kentucky next season.

Patterson, a 6-9 forward, led the SEC and ranked 11th in the country in field goal percentage, shooting at a 60.3 clip. An All-SEC performer, he was the only player in the SEC to rank in the top five in scoring (17.9 ppg) and rebounding (9.3). Patterson also led the SEC in double-doubles with 15, the eighth most in a single-season in UK history.

Patterson is the second Wildcat to declare for the NBA Draft, following junior Jodie Meeks who did earlier this month.

The NBA Draft is set for June 25. Underclassmen have until June 15 to remove their name from the draft and retain their NCAA eligibility.