Michigan basketball coach John Beilein announced Tuesday that sophomores Glenn Robinson III and Nik Stauskas will forgo their final two years of college eligibility to declare for the 2014 NBA Draft.
"In a very short period of time, these two young men have had a very positive impact on the Michigan Basketball program," said Beilein. "From day one, Glenn and Nik have had the right attitude and work ethic that has helped us enjoy so much of our recent success."
Michigan won a record 59 games over the last two seasons. Stauskas and Robinson were instrumental in helping the program come within one miracle shot of back-to-back Final Four appearance.
"They both understand that they will need to continue to work even harder in the years to come to accomplish their goals in the NBA," added Beilein. "We will continue to do whatever we can to assist and guide them as they take this next step in their basketball careers. We are excited for Glenn and Nik as they pursue this next stage of their life and begin their professional careers."
NBA scouts consider Stauskas as a late lottery pick in the upcoming draft. His teammate Robinson represents more of a question mark, as the athletic forward could be drafted anywhere from the late-first round to mid-second round.
"For as long as I can remember I have had a goal of playing in the NBA, whether it was on my backyard court or winning the Big Ten title at Crisler Center," said Stauskas. "Following some heartfelt discussions with my family, Coach Beilein and the rest of the coaching staff, I am ready to pursue my goals and begin my NBA career."
Stauskas showed remarkable improvement during his second year in Ann Arbor after surrendering this summer vacation to work out for the upcoming Michigan season.
The sophomore led the team in scoring with 17.5 points per game and even contributed with a team-high 3.3 assists per game in the wake of Trey Burke's departure.
"What cannot be understated is how the University of Michigan has helped prepare me for this moment both on and off the court," continued Stauskas. "This great university took a chance on me and gave me the opportunity to achieve my college basketball dreams. I hope in some small way, I was able provide some lasting moments. As I move forward into this next stage of my life, it cannot be said enough how thankful I am to the Wolverine fans for embracing me. I will always be a Wolverine at heart."
Robinson's decision was certainly more difficult than that of Stuaskas. His inconsistency during the last two seasons raised questions with NBA scouts, despite the obvious natural ability.
"I have thought a lot about the next step in my career over this past year," said Robinson. "After talking with my mom, my dad, my grandma, Coach Beilein and the coaching staff, I feel the time is right for me to begin my professional career and declare for the NBA Draft. I am confident I have the work ethic, the talent and maturity to pursue this path successfully."
Added Robinson: "It has truly been a blessing to have had the opportunity to attend to the University of Michigan and be part of this basketball program, The Wolverine fans and U-M alumni are the best in the world. I have developed many relationships and created so many positive memories that I know will last a lifetime. As excited as I am about my future, I will always be grateful for this wonderful two year experience at the University of Michigan."
Michigan now awaits the decision of Mitch McGary, who missed all but six games with back issues in 2014.
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