Breaking: Carter-Williams declares for NBA draft

After a fantastic sophomore campaign, Michael Carter-Williams will enter the 2013 NBA draft, according to head coach Jim Boeheim.

“Michael has informed me of his intention to enter the NBA Draft,” Boeheim said. “He’s coming off a tremendous season and we appreciate all he’s done for Syracuse basketball.”

Carter-Williams came off the bench during his freshman year, but this season he started all 40 games for the Orange. At one point, he led the nation in assists and steals, and stayed near the top of the list for most of the season. Carter-Williams finished the season averaging 7.3 assists-per-game (fifth in Division 1), 2.78 steals-per-game (fourth in Division 1), 11.9 points-per-game and a team-best 35.2 minutes a game.

CBSsports.com predicts Carter-Williams will be drafted with the 13^th overall pick in the draft, with most other experts having him fall in the same mid-first round area.

Carter-Williams leaves an already-depleted backcourt with the graduation of Brandon Triche. Redshirt sophomore Trevor Cooney, Duke transfer Michael Gbinji and incoming freshman Tyler Ennis will most likely take over for Carter-Williams and Triche at the guard positions.

Said Boeheim: “We wish Michael the best of luck as he pursues a pro career."