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Provo • BYU basketball star Eric Mika is turning pro.

The Cougars' 6-foot-10 sophomore announced on Tuesday night that he plans to sign with an agent and remain in the 2017 NBA draft.

"My wife and I are excited for the next step in this journey and we know it is just one among many," Mika said in a school news release. "I loved my time at BYU and it truly was a dream come true playing and studying here and I wouldn't trade the memories I made here for anything."

Mika participated in the NBA Draft Combine last week in Chicago. He is not expected to be taken in the first round of June's draft. Most mock drafts place him in the second round, or not being drafted at all.

"I have tremendous love and respect for the coaches, staff and players and loved working with them all. I'm excited to see what happens in the next five weeks," he said.

According to the BYU release, Mika has workouts scheduled with various teams. He worked out for the Utah Jazz last Sunday.

"We're very excited for Eric and support him in this decision," BYU head coach Dave Rose said. "He has the potential to be a great pro because of his amazing work ethic and the great support system around him. It was a privilege to coach Eric and he will always be remembered as a great player at BYU."

Mika averaged 20.3 points, 9.2 rebounds and 1.9 blocks per game as a sophomore at BYU, leading the Cougars to a 22-12 record. He drew national attention when he scored 29 points in a 79-71 win over previously undefeated Gonzaga in Spokane, Wash., in late February.

Mika played his freshman season in 2013-14 before a two-year church mission to Italy and is 22 years old. He was the USBWA District VIII Player of the Year in 2016-17.