Alexander To Test NBA Draft Status

West Virginia University junior Joe Alexander announced today that he will make himself available for the 2008 NBA Draft.

Under NCAA rules, Alexander will retain the option to withdraw from the draft and return for his senior season at WVU since he will not sign with an agent. The NBA Draft early entry withdrawal deadline is June 16, 10 days before the NBA Draft (June 26).

"Right now, my plan is to test the NBA waters, but my inclination is to be back for my senior year at West Virginia University," says Alexander. "I'm really looking forward to the experience of being able to work out for some NBA teams.

"As of now, I cannot see myself leaving because it would be very tough for me to miss a year playing with my teammates. In addition, I love playing for WVU and for the fans. Coach Huggins and I have talked extensively and we are working on this together."

"We are supportive of Joe and whatever Joe thinks he needs to do for himself and his family," says head coach Bob Huggins. "If he decides there is an opportunity out there for him, he will have 100 percent support of the Mountaineer basketball program."

As a junior, Alexander led the Mountaineers in scoring at 16.9 points per game and in rebounding at 6.4 boards per game. WVU finished 26-11 and advanced to the NCAA "Sweet 16" last month.

The 2008 NBA Draft will be held on June 26 at Madison Square Garden.