GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) -Florida center Marreese Speights has decided to keep his name in the upcoming NBA draft, hiring an agent and skipping his final two years of eligibility.

Speights told coach Billy Donovan of his intentions Thursday.

Speights averaged 14.5 points and 8.1 rebounds last season. He also led the Gators with 49 blocked shots and 10 double-doubles.

He announced his decision to turn pro in early April, but left open the option of returning to Florida for his junior season. He has since worked out for numerous NBA teams, and said he received enough positive feedback to make the jump to the pros.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 The information contained in the AP News report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without the prior written authority of The Associated Press.