STORRS, Conn. - Connecticut junior Josh Boone announced today that he's making himself eligible for the N-B-A draft. And he does so with the blessing of Huskies coach Jim Calhoun.<br>
<br>
The six-foot-ten forward hasn't hired an agent, giving him the option of returning for his senior season. Boone has until June 18th to withdraw from the June 28th draft.<br>
<br>
Boone has averaged nine points, seven rebounds and two blocked shots during his three seasons at UConn (YOO'-kahn). He spent most of that time playing behind current N-B-A stars Emeka Okafor (eh-MEH'-kuh OH'-kuh-for) and Charlie Villanueva (vihl-uh-noo-AY'-vuh).<br>
<br>
Two other Connecticut underclassmen could enter the draft. Sophomore swingman Rudy Gay has been projected as a top-five pick, and junior point guard Marcus Williams is considered one of the top playmakers in the nation.<br>
<br>
They face an April 29th deadline to declare.<br>
<br>
(Copyright 2006 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)