Promising Syracuse Freshman Going Pro; Malachi Richardson Hires Agent

An exciting announcement for Syracuse freshman Malachi Richardson likely means a bit of disappointment for local college basketball fans.

After playing a key role for the Orange in an impressive run to the 2016 Final-Four, Richardson tells ESPN he's hired agent Andy Miller of ASM Sports, which means he cannot return to college ball:

"Deciding to stay in the draft was a family decision and they thought it was a great one," Richardson told ESPN. "Doing what was best for me was the most important thing. I am very thankful for Syracuse giving me the opportunity that they did and I am very thankful for the great coaching staff and staff members. I truly loved Syracuse and will forever bleed orange."

Richardson had already entered the NBA Draft but before he hired an agent it was thought a return to Syracuse was possible, especially by Orange fans anticipating another year of watching the 6-foot-6, 200-pound shooting guard develop on the Carrier Dome floor.

However, Richardson apparently turned quite a few heads at the recent NBA combine, and some experts now think he's a legitimate top 20 selection, or higher, in next month's draft. Via Syracuse.com:

While he did not participate in the 5-on-5 scrimmages, he did put up some impressive numbers in terms of measurements, drill work and shooting. His wingspan measured at 7-feet. He posted one of the fastest times in the lane agility drill. He also shot the ball well from the NBA's 3-point line at the combine.

Richardson had two standout games in the NCAA Tournament, including an Elite Eight performance where he scored 21 of his 23 points in the second half. He ended the year averaging 13.4 PPG, second most on the team behind only Michael Gbinije (17.5) - who also participated in combine workouts.