For the first time in program history, an Oakland University basketball player is leaving school early to pursue a career in the NBA.

Keith Benson, the Golden Grizzlies junior center, announced Friday that he will skip his final year of eligibility in hopes of capitalizing on a standout performance this season.

“We are very excited for Keith (Benson),” Oakland head coach Greg Kampe said. “It has been a lifelong dream of his to play in the NBA.”

Among his numerous accolades earned this year, Benson was an AP All-American Honorable Mention, the recipient of the Lou Henson Mid-Major Player of the Year Award, and a member of the Summit League First Team.

“It’s been my dream to play in the NBA and this takes me one step closer to making that dream a reality,” Benson said. “I have not hired an agent and am leaving open the possibility of returning to school for my senior season. Testing the waters in the draft will give me a chance to see where I stand against all of the great talent out there. Participating in team workouts gives me that opportunity.”

Benson has until May 8th to withdraw his name and return to school if he chooses.

If drafted, Benson would become the first Golden Grizzly to be taken in the NBA draft. Only one OU player has ever reached the NBA – Rawle Marshall played for a pair of teams from 2005-07.

In last month’s NCAA Tournament game, Benson scored 28 points against the University of Pittsburgh. He averaged 17.3 points and 10.5 rebounds per game as a junior, while also finishing eighth in the nation in blocks and 11th in double-doubles.

Benson is set to graduate from Oakland University in May.