FILE - In this Jan. 18, 2014, file photo, Clemson's K.J. McDaniels grabs a rebound during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against Wake Forest in Clemson, S.C. A person familiar with the situation says Clemson junior McDaniels is leaving school for the NBA draft. The person spoke with The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because neither McDaniels nor Clemson has announced the decision. (AP Photo/The Independent-Mail, Mark Crammer, File) THE GREENVILLE NEWS OUT, SENECA NEWS OUT (The Associated Press)
CLEMSON, S.C. – K.J. McDaniels says he's dreamed about the NBA since first touching a basketball as a child.
The Clemson forward says it's time to take that step following his junior season, when he led the team in scoring, rebounding, blocks, steals and three-point goals made.
McDaniels declared for the NBA draft this week and talked Wednesday about his decision to forego his senior year. The 6-foot-6 forward from Birmingham, Ala., is considered a mid-to-late round selection in the NBA draft in June.
The Atlantic Coast Conference defensive player of the year says he was torn about returning and finally came to peace with his choice last week.
He thanked Clemson's coaches for helping him develop the past three seasons.
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