LaceDarius Dunn Opts To Stay In School--A Big Boost For Baylors' Hopes

WACO--LaceDarius Dunn's announcement to return for his senior season has Baylor fans rejoicing.

The Bear' leading scorer in 2009-2010 put an end to the speculation that he would forgo his final year of eligibility two days after teammate Ekpe Udoh announced his intentions to enter the NBA draft a year early.

Dunn was an intrical cog in the Bears' Elite 8 run last season averaging 19.6 points and 4.8 rebounds.

2010 saw Dunn set school records in points with 704, 3-pointers made with 116, and a free throw percentage of 85.7.

Dunn's decision to stay in school keeps Baylor in the mix for the Big 12 title next season. It is unlikely that the Bears would have been able to repeat their successful season if Dunn had opted for the draft with seniors Tweety Carter and Josh Lommers graduating and Ekpe Udoh forgoing his senior season.

Comments made by Dunn reflect the exceptional job that Baylor coach Scott Drew has done since arriving in Waco in 2003. Dunn explained his decision to return saying, "I knew I wanted to be back with this team and this coaching staff". He continued by expressing his confidence for next season claiming, "This is part of the Baylor tradition. We got close this year and one of my goals is to come back next year and go even further". Dunn says his goals also include earning his degree.

Coach Scott Drew praised Dunn saying, "He has improved every year he has been here". Drew continued by declaring, "This is a tremendous boost for our team...I do know that we have a better chance to reach our full potential with a guy like LaceDarius Dunn".