Phil Pressey heads for the NBA Draft

University of Missouri Tiger basketball point guardPhil Pressey will not be returning for his senior season.

On Wednesday, Pressey announced that that he will make himself eligible for the 2013 NBA Draft, signing with CAA Sports.

Pressey and University of Missouri men’s basketball head coach Frank Haith held a joint conference call Wednesday morning. During the call, Pressey told media he is looking forward to the NBA draft, but leaving teammates he will miss.

Haith told reporters that Pressey’s decision was something Pressey and his family had strongly consider. He says the coaching staff has been prepared in how they will go about recruiting.

Pressey was Missouri’s career leader in assists (580) and steals (196).

“Many college basketball players dream of this day, but when I had to finally make this decision, it was difficult because it means I am leaving a place I love so much,” Pressey said. “I love my teammates, my coaches, Mike Alden and all of our fans, and I’m so glad I had the chance to play for Coach Haith these last two years. He had such a big impact on my career and because of that relationship I will help Missouri Basketball anyway I can going forward.

“I wish we could have brought home a national championship banner, but coming to Mizzou was the best decision of my life. This is a special place and I will always be a Tiger.”

“It’s a bittersweet day because we all care so much about Phil, but I know how much research he and his family have done and I support that 100 percent,” Head Coach Frank Haith said. “I was fortunate in that I had the opportunity to coach Phil for two seasons and he helped us win a lot of games, but more importantly, he was a great ambassador for our program both on and off the court. I wish Phil and his family all the best as he turns to a new chapter in his basketball career.”

Pressey finishes his career at Mizzou as the all time leader in assists. Pressey finished his career averaging 9.7 points per game in three seasons and was just 41 points shy of 1,000 for his career.