March 21, 2006

Columbia, Mo. - University of Missouri junior guard Thomas Gardner, the Big 12 Conference's No. 2 scorer (19.7), has announced his intentions to make himself available for the 2006 National Basketball Association Amateur Draft, scheduled to be held on Wednesday, June 27 in New York City's Madison Square Garden.

The Mizzou single-season record holder and 2005-06 Big 12 leader in three-point field goals (3.36), Gardner will not sign with an agent however, and will take the necessary steps to protect his collegiate eligibility should he wish to return to school next fall.

"First of all, I would not have had this opportunity if it weren't for my coaches and teammates," Gardner said. "I've had a chance to sit down and talk with everyone involved, my family, coaches and teammates, and everyone has been so supportive, including our fans. The fans mean so much to me. This is such a special place because of their passion and support and I'll never forget that.

"One advantage to the timing is the rules that are in place. I have the opportunity to compete against some of the world's best players in NBA Draft camps and show that I can help an NBA franchise, without sacrificing my collegiate eligibility. I do not plan on signing with an agent and will take the necessary academic steps to protect my eligibility. I have put a lot of time and thought into this decision and this was something that I had discussed with my coaches and family throughout the year, even before the events surrounding the current coaching search."

In addition to his 19.7 ppg. scoring average, Gardner earned numerous accolades during the 2005-06 season, including Third Team All-Big 12 recognition from the Conference Coaches and "All-Improved Team" honors from the League media. Third all-time in Big 12 history with his 3.36 three-point field goal makes per game, Gardner was tabbed the "Top Shooter" in the Big 12 Conference in a player's poll by Sports Illustrated and topped the 20-point scoring barrier 16 times in 2005-06, including a career high 40 points in a dramatic 89-86 overtime win against Kansas on Jan. 16. That 40-point night was the second highest scoring performance in the Big 12 this season and the sixth highest total in Big 12 history. Gardner was also one of the League's most consistent scorers and failed to reach double figures just twice in 28 appearances. Gardner was a Midseason Candidate for the coveted John R. Wooden Player of the Year Award and was a Second Team National Association of Basketball Coaches All-District choice in addition to being tabbed an All-District 6 pick by the United States Basketball Writers Association.

"We are very supportive of Thomas and his decision to pursue his dreams of playing basketball in the NBA," Mizzou Head Coach Melvin Watkins said. "This is the lay of the landscape in college basketball and this is becoming the norm. The rules are in place to help these young men pursue their dreams of playing professionally, without sacrificing their collegiate future. We had discussed this option with Thomas throughout the season and it's something we had discussed before our current coaching situation."

If selected in June's Draft, Gardner will join a list of talented Tigers to make the early leap into the NBA, including former teammate Linas Kleiza (No. 27 to Denver in 2005) and more recent draftees Kareem Rush (No. 20 to Toronto in 2002) and Keyon Dooling (No. 10 to Orlando in 2000).

Gardner will be available for media interviews on Wednesday (March 22) at Mizzou Arena at 2 p.m.

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