COLUMBUS, Ohio -- As time continued to pass as D'Angelo Russell pondered his future, hope started to build at Ohio State that maybe he would do the unthinkable and return for his sophomore season.
That isn't what is happening.
Russell, one of the best players in college basketball this past season, told ESPN.com on Wednesday that he plans to enter the NBA Draft. He's projected as a top-five pick, making it virtually impossible for him to consider a return to college.
"This was a hard decision because I knew I could come back and play with my teammates who I love, and to be coached by coach Thad Matta again would have been awesome, but at the same time I wanted to pursue my dream of playing in the NBA," Russell told ESPN.com. "I know what I am capable of and the sky's the limit with effort. I know I have a lot to work on."
A 6-foot-5 combo guard, Russell was Ohio State's main scoring threat this past season. He showed proficiency with his jumper, creating his own shots and facilitating the Buckeyes' sometimes-stagnant offense. He averaged 19.7 points, 5.7 rebounds and 5.0 assists as a freshman, all while sporting the type of confidence that has NBA general managers drooling.
Before Ohio State's loss to Arizona in the third round of the NCAA Tournament, Russell was asked who the best defender he faced all season. He responded: "Nobody."
After a 3-of-19 shooting performance in Ohio State's season-ending loss to Arizona, Russell was asked the same question. Again, he responded: "Nobody."
That's how Russell will be remembered at Ohio State, a fearless competitor who will go down with other one-and-done Buckeye greats like Mike Conley Jr. and Greg Oden. Russell has a case for being the best of them all.
Russell said throughout the entire time he was repeatedly asked about his future that he doesn't know.
"That's the only answer I can give people," Russell told Northeast Ohio Media Group, "because it's the truth."
Given his decision came weeks after Ohio State lost to Arizona proves that was true. But when you're a top-five pick, the decision is made for you.
"You never know when this opportunity comes," he told ESPN.com. "I believe I am ready because my approach was to unpack my bags, get committed to winning and listening to the coaches -- as opposed to coming in and saying 'I am a pro' and trying to leave. I wasn't trying to get in and out at Ohio State."