CHAMPAIGN — Illini center Kofi Cockburn declared for the NBA Draft on Tuesday, via an announcement on social media.

“To begin, I would like to thank God for giving me the opportunity to live out my dream and play this wonderful game that I love so much. Thank you to my coaches and mentors for taking a chance on me and guiding me on this journey. To my family, I can’t thank you enough for the love and guidance. Without it, I don’t know where I’d be today. To my team, the bond I have created with my teammates is something I will cherish forever. We continued to uplift, encourage and motivate one another on and off the court and for that I am thankful. To Illini Nation, what a road it’s been. Thank you for welcoming me with open arms. You guys made this journey all the more special. Game after game, you filled the arena showing us what true unconditional support is!”

“Ever since I began playing basketball, a fire has been lit inside me which I knew I had to pursue to the fullest extent. With that being said, I have decided to declare for the 2020 NBA Draft. Embarking on this new journey is something I have always dreamt of and I have a special love for everyone who’s helped me get here.”

The Big Ten Freshman of the Year averaged 11.7 points and 8.2 rebounds per game in league play, while shooting nearly 49 percent from the field. Cockburn also tallied seven double-doubles against Big Ten opponents and 12 overall on the season — shattering Efrem Winters’ program record six double-doubles as a freshman.

A source told Illini Inquirer that Cockburn has left the possibility open of returning for his sophomore season. As the draft calendar currently stands, Cockburn has until June 3rd to withdraw his name to preserve his eligibility.

Illinois coach Brad Underwood said in a statement: “We are in full support of Kofi’s decision. We’re recruiting players to Illinois who have career aspirations of playing at the highest level. We will continue to help Kofi in every way possible as he goes through this process and with the information he receives from the NBA Undergraduate Advisory Committee.”