Source: University of HawaiiHONOLULU
(HawaiiNewsNow) - University of Hawaii men's basketball player Joston Thomas announced
that he will forgo his senior season in 2012-13 to pursue a professional
basketball career.
"I want to thank my 'ohana here in Hawai'i,"
Thomas said. "From the coaches, administration, fans and the team—all 15 of
them. This was an amazing opportunity for me and I look forward to my
future. None of this would be possible without the support I've had here."
Thomas, a 6-7, 235-lb forward, arrived at UH with
three years of eligibility after transferring from the College of Southern
Idaho. In two seasons as a Rainbow Warrior, the Washington D.C. native averaged
11.7 ppg and 5.2 rpg in 63 total games, including 46 starts. This past season
Thomas finished third on the team at 13.7 ppg and was the team's top scorer in
league play at 16.9 ppg.
His year
was highlighted by a 24-point performance against nationally ranked
Xavier—including the game-winning shot in overtime—and a 29-point, 12-rebound
performance in a road overtime win at San Jose State which garnered him Western
Athletic Conference Player of the Week honors.
"It's been a lifetime goal of Joston's to be
a professional basketball player," said head coach Gib Arnold. "I fully support him and his desire to achieve
this goal. Joston has made great strides as both a person and as a player while
affiliated with the University of Hawai'i. I am proud that we've been
able to act as a springboard for Joston and his career. I wish him and his
future coaches and teammates the best of luck."
