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After Wisconsin lost to Kentucky in the Final Four earlier this month, both Frank Kaminsky and Sam Dekker were quick to say they would not be leaving the Badgers early for the NBA Draft. Kaminsky reportedly gave second thought to going pro, ESPN's Jeff Goodman reported Friday, but will indeed return for his senior season.
"It was a tough decision, but I think the best thing for me is to stay another year and develop even more," the 7-footer told ESPN.com on Friday afternoon. "I made a commitment to the school and I don't think I can turn my back on the people who have been there for me."
Kaminsky enjoyed a breakout 2013-14 season, averaging 13.9 points and 6.3 rebounds per game while becoming arguably Wisconsin's most important offensive player. As a 7-footer with remarkable shooting range, the Lisle, Ill., native shot 37.8 percent from three-point territory and 52.8 percent overall.
According to Goodman, NBA executives pegged Kaminsky between the 25th and 45th draft picks in June's draft. With the Badgers now returning four starters, as well as impressive sophomores-to-be in Nigel Hayes and Bronson Koenig, UW is widely considered a preseason top-five team. Another fine year and deep tournament run could boost Kaminsky's stock even higher, particularly within a draft class that likely won't be as deep as this year's.