Jaylen Johnson will not return to Louisville

Louisville junior forward Jaylen Johnson won't be suiting up for Louisville next season. Johnson will pursue a career in professional basketball.

Johnson, who declared for the draft this Spring, was expected to not hire an agent and return to the Cardinals' roster, but he has decided otherwise.

"After a lengthy conversation with Coach P, I have decided to hire an agent and forego my senior year," Johnson said. "I will miss my teammates and coaches, but it is really important that I help out my mom and family. I'm going to work incredibly hard to give it my best shot. I'll be rooting for the Ville next year."

The 6-foot-9 forward showed flashes of potential throughout his Louisville career, but is not expected to be an NBA Draft pick. He started 26 games for the Cardinals last season and averaged 8.0 points and 5.8 rebounds per game. Johnson was most recently in the news for a minor marijuana possession charge after a traffic stop in Woodford County.

"Jaylen and I had a long conversation," said UofL Coach Rick Pitino. "He feels strongly about trying to make the league and help his family, as they have always been there for him. Jaylen has been a valuable asset to our program and has given me his heart and soul for the last three years. We wish him great success and we will be following his progress closely."

If he is not drafted by the NBA, Johnson could potentially land a spot in the NBDL or a more-lucrative spot with an overseas contract.