<
>

Providence's Ben Bentil to declare for draft, forgo hiring agent

Providence Friars sophomore forward Ben Bentil has decided to declare for the NBA draft but said he will not hire an agent.

Bentil's teammate, Kris Dunn, made it official earlier in the week that he will hire an agent -- ending his college career.

The 6-foot-9 Bentil averaged 21.1 points and 7.7 rebounds -- and was arguably the most improved player in the country.

"I have decided to declare for the NBA draft and go through the workout process over the next six weeks," Bentil said in a statement. "I intend on staying in school this spring and finishing my sophomore year. I am not hiring an agent so that I have the option of returning to Providence College for my junior season."

According to multiple NBA executives, Bentil projects to be drafted from 20th to 45th overall.

With the change in the draft process, Bentil can take advantage of a rule that allows players to withdraw 10 days after the conclusion of the NBA combine.

The deadline to withdraw this year is May 25.