Ohio State top scorer Sensabaugh declares for NBA draft

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Ohio State leading scorerBrice Sensabaugh plans to enter the NBA draft while leaving openthe possibility of returning next season with the Buckeyes.

Sensabaugh, who averaged 16.4 points as a freshman, saidSaturday he’ll look into turning pro after one college season.

“Ever since I can remember, playing in the NBA has always beenmy dream,” the 19-year-old from Orlando, Florida, posted on socialmedia. “After steady thought and consideration, I am excited toannounce I have decided to enter my name into the 2023 NBA Draftwith the option to return to OSU.

“The game of basketball has taken me places I could’ve neverimagined, and has provided endless opportunity as astudent-athlete,” Sensabaugh said. ”I am inexplicably prideful tosay that I am a Buckeye, and I say this with no uncertainty.”

The 6-foot-6 Sensabaugh was one of the bright spots for theBuckeyes, who started 11-3, but finished 16-19. He was injuredduring Ohio State’s run in the Big Ten tournament and sat out thefinale against Purdue.

Sensabaugh is projected as a late first-round pick. The NBA willhold its pre-draft combine in mid-May in Chicago. Players who havedeclared for the draft can withdraw up until May 31.