May 8, 2011

LEXINGTON, Ky. – University of Kentucky junior DeAndre Liggins will forego his senior season and keep his name in this year’s NBA Draft.

Liggins, a 6-foot-6 guard from Chicago, served as the Wildcats’ defensive stopper this season, consistently drawing the assignment of guarding the opposing team’s top offensive threat. He averaged 8.6 points and 4.0 rebounds while shooting 39.1 percent from 3-point range.

“Coach (Calipari) encouraged me to come back for my senior season, but based on the feedback I got from NBA personnel, I felt it was in the best interests of me and family to stay in the draft,” Liggins said. “I learned a lot in my three years here at Kentucky, and I appreciate all the support I got from the people at UK as well as the Big Blue Nation.”

“I feel comfortable that DeAndre had all the info that he needed to make this decision,” UK head coach John Calipari said. “I fully support what he’s doing and I will do everything I can to help him reach his dreams.”

Liggins received Lefty Driesell Defensive All-America honors and was also named Yahoo! SEC Defensive Player of the Year. He was voted to the SEC All-Defensive Team by league coaches and for his efforts in the NCAA Tournament was named to the East Regional All-Tournament team.

The 2011 NBA Draft will take place on June 23.