North Carolina's Kennedy Meeks to return for senior season

The water testing didn't last long for Kennedy Meeks.

Roughly two weeks after declaring for the 2016 NBA Draft, the North Carolina forward announced he'll take his name off the list and return to the Tar Heels for his senior season.

"I'm thankful I had the chance to explore my draft options, but I'm excited about the opportunity to rejoin my teammates and work toward having another outstanding season at UNC," Meeks said in a statement.

Meeks averaged 9.2 points and 5.9 rebounds as a junior, starting alongside Brice Johnson and Justin Jackson in North Carolina's fearsome frontcourt. Jackson also declared for the draft, but has yet to announce whether he'll come back to school, while Johnson is out of the picture after graduating.

"I think Kennedy's made the right decision in returning to school to finish his degree and put himself in better position toward playing professional basketball, which is his dream," said coach Roy Williams. "If he works hard this summer, he can have a big-time senior season and also help our team reach its goals."

Along with Meeks, Joel Berry II is the only other Tar Heels starter guaranteed to return in 2016-17. Last year's point guard, Marcus Paige, also graduated from the program.