NBA Draft 2012: Vanderbilt's John Jenkins Forgoes Eligibility, Turns Pro

Vanderbilt Commodore sharpshooter John Jenkins today announced his decision to forego his senior year and to enter the 2012 NBA Draft.

"This was a very difficult decision for my family and I to make, but I am ready to dedicate myself fully to achieving my dream of playing in the NBA," said Jenkins. "The last three years have been the time of my life, and I will always cherish my time at Vanderbilt and the relationships I have made along the way."

Head coach Kevin Stallings said: "I'm very happy for John as he has chosen this opportunity to pursue his professional career. This is something that he wants to do and has his family's blessing. My role has been to accumulate information on where he might be drafted. I have given that information to John and his parents, and this is the decision they have made."

Jenkins leaves the Commodores 10th all time in scoring. He became the first player since 1996 to lead the SEC in scoring in consecutive seasons.

"I also would like to thank Commodore fans. It has been a blessing to play at Memorial Gym for the last three years and those experiences will be ones that I will always remember. The fans that fill Memorial Gym every night really help make Vanderbilt a special place, and leaving them is the hardest part about this decision."