Memphis star Dedric Lawson returning to school next season

New Memphis coach Tubby Smith got some great news Thursday, as star freshman Dedric Lawson is set to withdraw from the NBA draft and return to school for his sophomore season.

Lawson's father, Keelon, who holds a support role with the Tigers basketball program, confirmed the news to CBS Sports Gary Parrish early Thursday afternoon.

The 6-foot-8, 225-pound forward came to Memphis as the nation's 26th-ranked recruit and didn't disappoint in his premier campaign. Lawson fell just short of averaging a double-double, finishing with 15.8 points and 9.3 rebounds per contest.

With his return, Lawson will be able to play with his brother, K.J., in 2016-17, who was limited to just 10 games this past season due to injury.