Basketball Star Steven Smith decides to return for '05-'06 season.

Steven Smith, La Salle's Atlantic 10 Conference Co-player of the Year, announced on June 21 that he will return to La Salle to play basketball and forgo the NBA draft. Smith has earned his undergraduate degree in Business Management but has one year of eligibility remaining.

Last season, Smith led or shared the team lead for the Explorers in points per game (20.3), total points (588), rebounds per game (8.5), total rebounds (239) and free throw percentage (.802) among many others. He finished ranked 21st in the nation in scoring.

Other post-season honors Smith earned included being named Honorable Mention All-America by the Associated Press and to the First-Team All-Big 5.

After three seasons at La Salle, the 6'7'' forward has compiled 1,389 career points, which places him 20th among Explorers scorers all-time.

"I was at the NBA Pre-Draft Camp in Chicago with Steve and the consensus was that he would be a late first to mid-second round pick in this years draft. If he were to return to college, he would be viewed as an All-American Candidate and a likely first round draft choice next year," said La Salle University Head Coach John Giannini. "Steve has chosen to elevate his status in next year's draft and dedicate himself to being the best player in college basketball. These are very exciting and realistic goals. They put Steve in a strong position to enjoy a long and rewarding NBA career."

His return should position Smith as one of America's best collegiate players and give him a legitimate opportunity to become the school's fourth National Player of the Year -- a distinction only two programs, Georgia Tech and Duke, have achieved.