Australia's seven-foot-tall Kentucky back-up big man Isaac Humphries says he will turn professional and hire an agent to explore opportunities in the NBA and internationally.
The 19-year-old sophomore is the fifth Wildcat to leave the college early this year and says his decision was based on "what I believe is best for myself and my family."
Humphries averaged 2.8 points and 2.8 rebounds per game, in limited minutes last season. In what turned out to be his last game as a Wildcat, he scored a career-high 12 points in Kentucky's loss to North Carolina in the NCAA Tournament.
"This decision didn't come easily for me. My goal has always been to play professionally," Humphries said in a statement posted on Kentucky's official website.
Humphries credited two seasons under coach John Calipari for improving his game.
"I believe I have a lot more I can do, but I also believe that the time for me to take the next step is now," he said.
"I know turning pro is going to be the hardest thing I've ever done. I understand that these next few weeks and months with the pre-draft process is going to take a lot of hard work and maybe some realistic truths.
"But, because of what I've learned at Kentucky and the support I have from my family and this school, I also feel like I'm ready to face those challenges and that I'm prepared for whatever is next and wherever that may take me."
Humphries made a big impression at the 2014 FIBA under-17 World Championships, averaging 18.9 points, 11.6 rebounds, and 3.3 blocks per game.
The Sydneysider is the first Australian to enter the 2017 draft, following the lead of 2016 No.1 draft pick Ben Simmons and Milwaukee Bucks centre Thon Maker.
