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Sources: UTEP's Vince Hunter to Turn Pro

After just two short years in a Miner uniform, UTEP star Vince Hunter has apparently decided to try his hand at the next level.

By Alex Nicolas

According to sources close to the UTEP basketball program, Vince Hunter, the Miners' leading scorer and first team all conference player, has decided to forego his final two years of college eligibility and will toss his name into the ring of the NBA draft.

Hunter's draft stock rose a bit early on in the season, as the sophomore posted five straight double-doubles to start the year. He also gave then #3 Arizona fits, going for 18 and 12 against the Wildcats on national TV before fouling out with about 8 minutes to play.

As it currently stands, some outlets project the 6'8 forward to be a late second round draft pick, at best, while most see him going undrafted. However, those outlets though, perhaps, hadn't seen him leaving school early, and could potentially begin to list him as a mid to late second round draft pick depending on how certain things pan out leading up to June's draft.

It is unclear whether or not Hunter has already retained an agent, as that would be the absolute nail in the coffin as far him becoming a professional. Of course, if he hasn't, there is always the potential for him to change his mind and return to the Miners for his junior year. Sources tell MinerRush that he has been given until the 12th of this month to make that call.

Should he not, Vince would leave UTEP after averging 13.6 points and 7.9 rebounds in 67 career games. He was named the Conference USA freshman of the week five times a year ago, en route to being named the conference freshman of the year as well. He also amassed four player of the week awards and was named first team all conference this year.

We wish Hunter the best in all his future endeavors, and thank him for giving us two years to watch him grow as a great player and person. Picks Up!

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