Louisville's Jaylen Johnson Is Staying In The NBA Draft

The Cardinals' big man is staying in the NBA Draft.

Louisville junior forward Jaylen Johnson has decided to stay in the NBA Draft.

The Cardinals announced this afternoon that Johnson will forego his final season of eligibility and pursue a professional career.

Johnson is signing with an agent and staying in the draft.

"After a lengthy conversation with Coach P I have decided to hire an agent and forego my senior year," Johnson said in a release. "I will miss my teammates and coaches, but it is really important that I help out my mom and family. I'm going to work incredibly hard to give it my best shot. I'll be rooting for the Ville next year."

Rick Pitino is supportive of Johnson's decision.

"Jaylen and I had a long conversation," he said in a release. "He feels strongly about trying to make the league and help his family, as they have always been there for him. Jaylen has been a valuable asset to our program and has given me his heart and soul for the last three years. We wish him great success and we will be following his progress closely."

Johnson started for 26 games last season, averaging 8.0 points and 5.8 rebounds a game.