For the third consecutive season, Ohio State head coach Thad Matta is losing a talented freshman center to the NBA Draft. 7-footer B.J. Mullens announced his intentions to enter the 2009 NBA Draft in a press release issued by the university:

“After long consideration I have decided to enter my name in the 2009 NBA Draft. This was not an easy choice because I love Ohio State University but the many positive reasons for moving on outweigh the many good reasons for staying.”

While Mullens may very well be a late lottery/mid first round pick based on potential, another year under his belt would have done him wonders. But in the spirit of IU getting back in the thick of things in the Big Ten race next year, I say: So long, B.J. Could you take Evan Turner with you?