MIAMI -- Miami Hurricanes freshman guard Lonnie Walker IV said he'll turn pro this year, a move anticipated even before his college basketball career began.
Walker announced Wednesday on Twitter that he'll hire an agent -- which would prevent him from returning to the Hurricanes -- and plans to enter the NBA draft. Many projections list him as a lottery pick.
Just a kid from Reading 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/fsJ2PGcdSB
— Bruce Lee 🤘🏾 (@lonniewalker_4) April 4, 2018
The 6-foot-4 Walker's departure is no surprise. A year ago, Miami coach Jim Larranaga said Walker would likely be a one-and-done.
"I'm here making a decision that I thought would never come true," Walker wrote on Twitter. "After reviewing my options with family and coaches, I've decided to enter the 2018 NBA Draft and will hire an agent."
Walker led the Hurricanes as a freshman with an average of 11.5 points while shooting 42 percent. He averaged 13.6 points in Atlantic Coast Conference games.
Walker was perhaps the most highly regarded prospect in school history when Larranaga signed him out of Reading, Pennsylvania, in late 2016. He's believed to be the first Hurricanes player to turn pro after his freshman season.
"The University of Miami exceeded my expectations," Walker wrote. "From school, sports, the environment and last but not least, the Canes fans. This city has welcomed me with open arms and supported me at my lowest of lows, but also my highest of highs."
Miami sophomores Bruce Brown Jr. and Dewan Huell have said they'll also declare for the draft but won't retain an agent, leaving them the option of continuing their college careers.
The Hurricanes lost to Loyola-Chicago in the first round of the NCAA tournament and finished 22-10.
