Apr 10, 2008 - 4:28 AM
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Mayo declared for the NBA draft Wednesday and will sign with an agent, thereby forfeiting his final three years of eligibility at USC.
The 6-5 Mayo, who was among the top freshmen in the country, averaged 20.7 points, 4.5 rebounds and 3.3 assists in 33 games. He joined Indiana freshman Eric Gordon and Kansas State sensation Michael Beasley as the only other first-year players to average 20.0 points.
Gordon declared for the draft on Monday.
On Wednesday it was Mayo's turn.
"I am so thankful for the fans and alumni at USC and around the nation that have been so supportive of me and my teammates throughout the season," Mayo said. "I'd like to express my appreciation to my coaches and teammates for their support in one of the most important decisions I've ever made. I will be entering the 2008 NBA Draft.
"I am going to finish the semester here at USC and then focus on preparing for the NBA draft," added Mayo. "Attending USC has been such a great experience for me and has really helped prepare me for my next step in life."
Southern California coach Tim Floyd knew the move was inevitable.
"This comes as no surprise," Floyd said. "We are appreciative of everything O.J. did for all of us the year he was with us. We wish him well. I have no doubt that he will be a great professional."
Mayo's season ended in the first round of the NCAA Tournament against fellow freshman standout Beasley and Kansas State. Mayo scored 20 points on just 6-of-16 shooting in an 80-67 loss to the Wildcats.
