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Nick Ward returning to Michigan State for junior year, withdrawing name from NBA draft

"It is every player's dream to play in the NBA and I've learned a lot through my workouts and interviews that will help me when I am ready to make that next step."
Credit: Nick King/Lansing State Journal
Michigan State's Nick Ward, right, jokes with head coach Tom Izzo after being taken out late during the second half on Friday, Dec. 29, 2017, at the Breslin Center in East Lansing. The Spartans won 111-61.

EAST LANSING - Nick Ward is returning to Michigan State for his junior season.

Ward declared for the NBA draft in April but did not hire an agent, allowing for him to return. Wednesday was the deadline for his decision.

“It was a great opportunity for me to go through the process and I’m grateful for the feedback I received from NBA teams,” Ward said in a press release. “It is every player’s dream to play in the NBA and I’ve learned a lot through my workouts and interviews that will help me when I am ready to make that next step. I know what I need to work on and I’m committed to coming to the gym every day and striving to be the best player I can be.

"I’m really excited to return to Michigan State, to be in front of our fans at the Breslin Center and to be back with my teammates and coaches as we work to reach our team goals.”

The Athletic Detroit was first to report Ward's return to MSU.

Ward averaged 12.4 points and 7.1 rebounds in 18.9 minutes as a sophomore for the Spartans.

"I’m glad that Nick had the opportunity to go through the process and was able to receive feedback from NBA teams,” MSU coach Tom Izzo said in the release. “It was a great opportunity for him to explore his draft stock and to see what he needs to work on in order to play at the highest level. ... We’re very excited to have Nick back and look forward to him helping to lead our team in the successful ways he has since coming to Michigan State.

"Nick has been a valuable member of our program and I think this experience will not only be helpful to him, but others on our team striving to reach the same dreams and goals.”

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