Jackets forward Lawal to enter NBA draft

Georgia Tech forward Gani Lawal has decided to enter his name in the NBA draft.

Lawal, a 6-9 forward from Norcross, said he will not hire an agent, which means he can return for his junior season. The NBA draft will be held June 25. Lawal has until June 15 to withdraw his name.

Lawal, who averaged 15.1 points and 9.5 rebounds a game last season, is projected as a low first round to mid-second round pick. Lawal’s decision means he is now allowed to attend pre-draft camps, and to be interviewed by NBA teams.

Tech coach Paul Hewitt said Lawal, like two former Jackets who left school early, has a chance to do well in the pros because of his attitude, athleticism and work ethic.

“He’s a lot like a Thaddeus Young, or Chris Bosh, who went into the league somewhat undefined,” Hewitt said, “but because of their tremendous upside, they turned into better players.”

Fans got a glimpse of that upside last season, when Lawal was statistically the most improved player in the ACC, increasing his scoring (+7.9) and rebounding (+6) averages year over year.

“I’m sure he’ll make another jump,” Hewitt said.

Lawal’s father, Gani Lawal Sr., said he supports his son’s decision. He hopes, however, that Gani will return for his junior season to work on his management degree, as well as his basketball skills.

“I think there are some things he needs to work on: mid-range jumper, footwork, and build up his body some,” said Lawal, Sr., who is a real estate and mortgage broker.

ESPN’s Jay Bilas agrees. He said Lawal is a strong inside player, excellent rebounder and, for his size, one of the best players in the nation at running the floor. But, Bilas said Lawal needs to work on his post game and free-throw shooting, and should return to school.

“He’ll get taken, he’s got a body for it,” Bilas said. “But I don’t think he’s prepared to make an impact in the NBA right now. He needs to learn to dominate the college game.”

If Lawal returns for his junior season, he will join a heralded recruiting class that includes the nation’s top prospect, forward Derrick Favors.