Mann declares for draft after breakthrough season

GAINESVILLE — UF guard Tre Mann is leaving for the NBA after a breakout sophomore season for the Gators.

The 20-year-old Gainesville native announced on his Twitter account he will skip his final two seasons at UF and pursue his dream of playing professionally.

Mann led the Gators (15-10) with a scoring average of 16 points and 3.4 assists a game while also averaging 5.6 rebounds. The 6-foot-5, 190-pound Mann possesses size, versatility, the ability to handle the ball, and create his shot and opportunities for his teammates.

Mann saved his best for last, averaging 20.9 points during his final seven games as a Gator.

ESPN ranks him the No. 15 prospect in the 2021 draft.

“I think that NBA teams were able to see my ability to play on and off the ball as well as my improved stats across the board,” Mann said.

“I was able to showcase my leadership skills, efficiency shooting the ball, defensive versatility, and ability to rebound.”

Mann explored his professional options following a disappointing freshman season for the former McDonald’s All-American but eventually decided to return to UF.

Mann now has hired a sports agent, precluding him from returning to college.

“Thank you to my family for always providing me with love and support. No words can ever describe how grateful I am to you,” Mann wrote. “I would like to thank Coach White and his staff at the University of Florida for believing in me and helping to shape me into the man and player I am today. Thank you to all my teammates who shared the Gator uniform with me for the last two seasons.”