Manny Fresh leaving U of M early. Say it ain't so!

Michigan wing Manny Harris made official today what was first reported Friday ... he'll skip his senior year for a chance at the NBA.

"After long discussions with the U-M staff and my family and friends, I have decided to pursue my dream of professional basketball and leave U-M early for the NBA," said Harris. "It is important for me to thank the University of Michigan, Coach [John] Beilein and his staff, my teammates, my professors, as well as all those in the athletic department who have helped me over the last three years. My growth as a person and player wouldn't have been possible without them.

"I will always appreciate the college game and what it has done for me, but playing professional basketball has always been a goal and I feel it is the best time to pursue that. I will always be a Michigan Wolverine at heart and bleed Maize and Blue forever."

Harris received advice from many, but ultimately the decision was his.

"Manny believes it is his time to move on to the NBA, and we fully support him," added Beilein. "It was a tough decision for him and we are prepared to assist him in every way we can as he begins this new chapter in his life. Manny has assured us he plans on successfully finishing this semester, which would put him in a position to graduate from Michigan with just one more academic year."

"In three short years, Manny has compiled outstanding career numbers in points, rebounds, assists and steals -- milestones many very good players do not reach during a four-year career. I have many fond memories of Manny's time at Michigan. He has been clutch in so many big wins we certainly will miss him. However, we wish him nothing but the best in his professional basketball career and beyond."

The NBA Draft, comprised of two rounds and 60 total selections, will be held Thursday (June 24) at the Madison Square Garden in New York City.