Los Angeles, CA (Best E Casino) - University of Southern California freshman guard O.J. Mayo informed school officials Wednesday that he will, as expected, forego his final three years of college eligibility and enter his name into the 2008 NBA Draft.

Mayo told those close to the program, including head coach Tim Floyd, that he plans to turn pro and sign with an agent, eliminating the possibility that he could return to school at all.

"This comes as no surprise," said Floyd. "We are appreciative of everything O.J. did for all of us the year he was with us. We wish him well. I have no doubt that he will be a great professional."

After arriving on campus as perhaps the most anticipated recruit in USC's limited hoops history, Mayo averaged 20.5 points, 4.5 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game in his lone collegiate season. The Trojans went 21-12 - 10-8 in the Pac-10 Conference - and were ousted in the NCAA Tournament's opening round by Kansas State, led by First Team All-America forward and fellow freshman standout Mike Beasley.

"I am so thankful for the fans and alumni at USC and around the nation that have been so supportive of me and my teammates throughout the season," said Mayo. "I'd like to express my appreciation to my coaches and teammates for their support in one of the most important decisions I've ever made."

Mayo, a 6-foot-5 Huntington, West Virginia native, was named to the all-Pac-10 team, as well as the league's all-freshman team. He came to Los Angeles last fall as one of the nation's most coveted high school recruits, having bounced between three different high schools in three separate states. Despite failing to transform USC into a national powerhouse, the combo guard is still likely a top-five pick in June's draft.

Should he opt not to sign with an agent, Mayo has until the NBA's June 16 deadline to withdraw his name from the draft. According to the Times story, however, Mayo plans on completing the spring semester at USC before leaving school for good.