BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) -LSU freshman forward Anthony Randolph intends to enter the NBA draft, although he has not hired an agent and is leaving open the possibility of returning to the Tigers for his sophomore year.

``There cannot be a better time for me to enter the NBA draft,'' Randolph said Tuesday. ``I am well aware of the challenges young men face when entering the professional ranks of any career. However, I believe I am ready to face these challenges with a positive attitude, and I have faith and determination that I will succeed.''

The 6-foot-10 Randolph averaged 15.6 points, 8.5 rebounds and 2.3 blocks this season. LSU was 13-18 this season, and coach John Brady was fired near the end of the regular season.

Randolph said the uncertain coaching situation had nothing to do with his decision.

``I just know that I have the opportunity of being selected in the first round,'' he said. ``I was counseled by my family and the coaches and we all came to the conclusion that right now would be the best time for me to pursue my professional career.''Copyright © 2005 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. The information contained in the AP News report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without the prior written authority of The Associated Press.