CEDAR CITY, Utah – Southern Utah University men's basketball star, John Knight III, announced Tuesday he has withdrawn his name from the NBA Draft and will return to play for the Thunderbirds during the 2021-22 campaign.

"I first want to thank all those who have helped and supported me through the NBA Draft process," Knight said. "I received great feedback and know what I need to work on to improve my game. With that, I will be returning to Southern Utah for my senior season. Go 'Birds!"

Knight's return is significant news for SUU as he was the team's second-leading scorer with 14.4 points per game during the 2020-21 season, which resulted in the program's first ever Big Sky regular season championship. Knight also led the team by averaging 4.4 assists and 1.4 steals per contest while playing a team-high 31.7 minutes per game.

"We are excited to have John back for another season," said head coach Todd Simon. "He has an incredible opportunity to build on his legacy here at SUU and set himself up as a professional in the future. He has been a great Thunderbird on the court, in the classroom and in the community."

Knight hails from Jackson, Mississippi where he starred for Callaway High School before beginning his collegiate career at Southwest Mississippi Community College. Knight then transferred to Utah State where he played one season before joining the T-Birds in Cedar City.

For all the latest on SUU men's basketball, follow @SUUBasketball on Twitter and Instagram, and like the Southern Utah Basketball page on Facebook.