USA - Big Baby on his way out of LSU, NBA-bound

BATON ROUGE (NCAA) - Glen "Big Baby" Davis believes he has grown out of the college game.

Louisiana State's chunky center has announced that he will forego his last year of eligibility and enter June's NBA draft.

"This is a move I want to do and am ready to do," Davis said. "This is a dream of mine and one that I have given a great deal of thought.

“I feel I grew a lot this season and I know in my heart the time is right."

With career totals of 1,587 points, 916 rebounds and 110 blocks, Davis is the only LSU player other than Shaquille O'Neal, an NBA legend and now with the Miami Heat, to surpass 1,500 points, 900 rebounds and 100 blocks.

A 6ft 9in widebody with quick feet and soft hands, Davis averaged 17.7 points and 10.4 rebounds in 29 games this past season.

However, LSU failed to make the NCAA Tournament or the NIT after finishing 17-15, including a 5-11 mark in the Southeastern Conference.

Davis is best known for earning SEC Player of the Year honors in 2005-06, when he weighed 315 pounds and averaged 18.6 points and 9.7 rebounds as the Tigers reached the Final Four for the first time in 20 years.

"One of my reasons for not leaving last year was my hope I could go even further this year, but unfortunately, that didn't happen,” added the 21-year-old.

NBA scouts are likely concerned with Davis' weight taking a toll on his knees. He was listed at 290 pounds this past season.

Coach John Brady said: "He had three outstanding years at LSU.

"He felt in his heart it was time for him to go and that is the most important thing for me to know as a coach.

“I wish him well and he will do well. I appreciate everything he has done for me, the team and LSU."

FIBA