Gophers men’s basketball player Cam Christie said Friday he is going to enter NBA draft process while still maintaining his college eligibility and a possible return to the U for next season.

“It has always been a dream of mine to make it to the NBA,” Christie wrote on social media. “Today, I am honored to share that I am entering the 2024 NBA draft process. I am grateful for this opportunity and am eager to receive feedback from the NBA on my game. I want to express my gratitude to my family, teammates, coach (Ben) Johnson and his entire staff, and all the incredible Gopher fans for their support throughout the past basketball season.”

Christie, who was named to the Big Ten all-freshman team, left the door open to return for his sophomore season at Minnesota in 2024-25.

“As I go through the process, I will maintain my college eligibility,” he wrote. “I am ready for the new challenges ahead, and I appreciate everyone’s continued support.”

Christie’s decision comes with the support of Johnson, who posted on social media: “Keep pushing @24CameronC.”

Christie’s name was not mentioned in four mock drafts the Pioneer Press consulted on Friday, including The Ringer, Bleacher Report, Sports Illustrated and Yahoo.

Christie averaged 11.3 points per game, including 39 percent 3-point shooting across 33 games last season. The Arlington Heights, Ill., native worked his way into the starting lineup in mid-December.

Christie drew praise as a potential NBA player from TV commentators during the season, including former Timberwolves forward Robbie Hummel on Big Ten Network.

Christie had some big games, including a season high 23 at Illinois in late February, but also had freshman moments including being held scoreless at Northwestern in the regular-season finale in March.

Christe’s older brother, Max, left Michigan State after one season and was drafted with the 35th pick in the second round by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2022. Now in his second season in the NBA, the 21-year-old guard is averaging 4.3 points and 14.3 minutes across 66 games this season.

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