Kansas Basketball star Josh Jackson officially declares for the NBA Draft

The pipe dream is over for the most optimistic of KU fans - freshman phenom Josh Jackson is headed to the NBA.

Per KUAthletics.com, Jackson broke three Jayhawk freshman records while leading KU in steals and blocks on his way to Big 12 Freshman of the Year and First Team All-Big 12 nods. He was also named Second Team All-American.

Bill Self is quoted as saying:

This obviously does not come as a surprise. When we recruited Josh we were so fortunate but also knew this would probably be a one-year stay. He has not only surpassed our expectations as a player but also as a leader and a teammate. We are all very happy for Josh and his family and are very proud of having coached one of the most talented kids that has ever come through here. We've had a lot really good ones here but Josh is as prepared for the next level as anyone that we have ever had.

Jackson is expected to be no lower than a top-3 pick, and depending on how the NBA Draft lottery shakes out, could become the #1 overall pick in 2017.

The only remaining question mark on the current roster is whether or not Svi will return. He has declared for the draft, but since he has not hired an agent he has the option of returning to KU, a decision that must be made by May 24.