North Carolina's Jackson declares for NBA draft, signs agent

North Carolina star Justin Jackson declared for the 2017 NBA Draft with an agent Thursday, ending his college career after three seasons.

"I wouldn't trade anything (for) the last three years as a Tar Heel, especially getting the chance to win a national championship, which was unbelievable," Jackson said in a news release. "I feel I made a good decision last year to come back for my junior year. That has put me in a much better position as a basketball player and a person. I'm proud to know I will always be a Tar Heel."

After flirting with the pro ranks last year, Jackson came back to Chapel Hill and became the ACC Player of the Year. He averaged 18.3 points and 4.7 rebounds, and led the Tar Heels to their sixth national championship.

"Justin has improved his draft position immensely this year, and it's a credit to him and the hard work he put into making himself a great player," head coach Roy Williams said. "We are so pleased that he is able to take this step and look forward to watching him play for many years at the next level."

Though his field-goal percentage dipped a bit in 2016-17 compared to his two previous seasons, Jackson used his junior year to become a much better jump-shooter, evidenced by his improvement from the 3-point and free-throw lines.

The 6-foot-8 forward is expected to be a first-round selection in the June draft.