South Carolina forward Chris Silva entering 2018 NBA draft

(Photo by Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire)

South Carolina forward Chris Silva has officially declared for the 2018 NBA draft.

The school announced Silva’s decision via Twitter on Tuesday and noted that he would not sign with an agent, which would allow him to return to Columbia for his senior season if he withdraws from the process by May 30.

The 6-9 junior averaged 14.3 points and 8.0 rebounds in 25.8 minutes per game this past season. He also added 1.4 blocks per contest.

Silva racked up 10 double doubles on the year and earned All-SEC First Team honors after making a significant impact for the Gamecocks.

His role increased dramatically from his sophomore season as South Carolina lost several important players from its 2017 Final Four team.

Silva’s return would be welcomed by Frank Martin and company, as the team returns a solid group of rotation players while also adding former 5-star Louisville commit Brian Bowen.

The Gamecocks went 17-16 overall this season.

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