Jarrett Allen will hire an agent and stay in the 2017 NBA Draft.

“It is with mixed emotions that I announce my decision to begin the process of hiring an agent and turning professional,” Allen said. “Throughout this basketball season, I felt l have grown as a basketball player and as a person while learning how to approach and prepare for the game.

“These experiences and my continual improvement throughout this year have provided me the opportunity of a lifetime to live my dream of playing basketball at the highest level,” he continued.

“I have had deep discussions with my family as well as Coach (Shaka) Smart in making sure this is a sound decision. I firmly believe in my heart, understanding the personal goals I have set and my love for the game of basketball, that this is the right decision to make.”

Allen averaged 13.4 points and 8.4 rebounds per game for Texas.

Allen is expected to be a mid-first round pick.