N.C. State's Powell To Test NBA Waters

The move is a surprise, but the 6-foot-9 Powell said he will notretain an agent and could return to the Wolfpack.

"I am in good academic standing and will not retain an agent. Therefore, I will preserve myoption of returning to N.C. State," Powell said.

Players without agents can work out for teams and still pulltheir names out of the pro mix one week before the June 25 draftand return to college.

Powell, of Riverdale, Ga., averaged 12.4 points and 5.3 reboundsin 27 minutes as N.C. State's main inside threat last season. Hisnumbers increased to 19.3 points per game in the postseason,earning him All-ACC Tournament honors.

"We certainly wish Josh all the best as he pursues his NBA goals," saidhead coach Herb Sendek. "We will continue to provide him support as he'tests the waters' and certainly will welcome his return if, in fact,he decides to withdraw from the draft."

However, one NBA scout said Powell could be making a majormistake by testing the NBA waters so soon.

"He's on the radar screen of NBA people, but he's just ablip," the scout said. "This could cost him a year or two downthe line. The way things are now a guy can have one outstandinggame and somebody thinks he should turn pro."

Former N.C. State forward Damien Wilkins tested the NBA watersin 2001 as a sophomore and withdrew his name before the draft. Buthe was not welcomed back by coach Herb Sendek and transferred toGeorgia.

Sendek said Friday that he'll support Powell.

"We certainly will welcome his return, if in fact he decides towithdraw from the draft," Sendek said.

The potential loss of Powell would be a major setback for theWolfpack, which has made the NCAA tournament the past two seasons.N.C. State is one of the favorites to win next year's ACC titlewith four starters back and the return of injured star IlianEvtimov.

Earlier in the week, reserve center Jordan Collins withdrew fromschool. It is unclear if and when the 6-10 sophomore would return toclass.