Corvallis, OR (Sports Network) - Oregon State junior guard Jared Cunningham will forego his senior season and enter the 2012 NBA Draft, the school announced Monday.

"This was a very difficult decision," Cunningham said. "But I felt like I had to do what was best for me and my future. My dream has always been to play in the NBA and I'm ready to pursue that dream."

The 6-foot-4 guard averaged 17.9 points per game during his junior season, while receiving All-Pac-12 First Team honors and setting a school record for most steals in a season with 91.

"To be considered as a potential professional is every kid's dream," remarked Beavers head coach Craig Robinson. "We support him whole-heartedly. He won't be here very long, but he is welcome to come back here and work out with us anytime he wants."

Cunningham finished his Beaver career 13th all-time in scoring (1,271) and second in steals (219) and looks to become the first Oregon State player selected in the NBA Draft since Corey Benjamin was selected 28th overall by the Chicago Bulls in 1998.

The Sports Network