It took Joel Berry only one day to withdraw from the upcoming NBA Draft that he tossed his name into Monday. Berry, who led North Carolina to a national championship three weeks ago, announced he's coming back for his senior season.
"After speaking to my family I have decided to withdraw from the 2017 draft and will return to Carolina next season," Berry said. "I know I can continue to improve my game and be better prepared for the NBA after another year playing against the best college competition in the country. There's no reason to rush leaving school. I love being a Tar Heel and love playing for Carolina and Coach (Roy) Williams."
Berry was named the Most Outstanding Player from the Final Four this season. He averaged 13.8 points and 2.33 rebounds in the NCAA Tournament -- including 22 points and six assists in the title game against Gonzaga.
Tar Heels teammates Theo Pinson and Tony Bradley are still testing the waters, and have not yet made decisions about whether they will remain in the draft or join Berry in withdrawing. Although the team loses Justin Jackson, Isaiah Hicks and Kennedy Meeks, UNC will still be a Top 25 team coming into the 2017-18 season. Getting Pinson and Bradley back would only increase the Heels' chances of a repeat.
