Justin Jackson, Kennedy Meeks Declare for NBA Draft: Latest Comments, Reaction

Justin Jackson and Kennedy Meeks, two key players from North Carolina's run to the NCAA title game earlier this month, have declared for the NBA draft. 

Per the Tar Heels' official athletic website, Jackson and Meeks are not hiring agents, giving them the option to return to North Carolina next season.

Tar Heels head coach Roy Williams offered his support to Jackson and Meeks in a statement included in the report:

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Justin and Kennedy have our complete support in taking this step. Any player who is thinking about playing in the NBA next season should gather as much information as they can about their possible draft position. We will continue to support and assist them over the next month to obtain the information that will help them decide whether they should remain in the draft or return to UNC next season.

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Players who declare for the draft without hiring an agent have until May 25 to withdraw their names. That will give Jackson and Meeks plenty of time to gather feedback from NBA scouts, particularly with the scouting combine scheduled to take place in Chicago May 11-15. 

Jackson was the more prominent player for North Carolina last season, averaging 12.2 points and 3.9 rebounds in 40 games. Meeks' playing time decreased slightly from the previous season, though he was still a very good inside presence with 9.2 points and 5.9 rebounds per game. 

Neither player is currently regarded highly on NBA draft boards. ESPN's Chad Ford doesn't have Jackson or Meeks in his current top 100. CBS Sports' Sam Vecenie is a little higher on Jackson, putting him at No. 62 overall, but Meeks didn't make the top 150. 

Being able to declare for the draft with the ability to return to school makes this a smart decision for Jackson and Meeks. They may not end up sticking in this year's class, but they will also get necessary feedback from pro scouts about things to work on in college next season that can help their stock. 

Jackson and Meeks have nothing to lose in this scenario. They know the Tar Heels will be right there waiting with open arms if they come back.