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Tyrone Wallace has confirmed that he will return to Cal for one last go-around, likely with the most talented squad he'll ever play with as a California Golden Bear.
Where's Wallace? Where's Wallace String? Oh, he back at Cal. pic.twitter.com/jEPVKGmB97
— GoldenBlogs (@GoldenBlogs) April 23, 2015
When stating why he decided to return to college, Wallace cited a few factors, particularly that he wants to be the first one in his family to get a degree, and that he promised his late grandfather that he would do that. Wallace actually got positive feedback from NBA scouts (he's a projected 2nd round pick), but feels confident in his decision and made it a few days ago.
Wallace will join Sam Singer and Brandon Chauca as the team's primary point guards, with Jordan Mathews, Jabari Bird, Stephen Domingo, Tyson Jolly, and hopefully Davon Dillard filling out the wings rotation. Ivan Rabb prepares to patrol as the team's primary four, with Kingsley Okoroh and Kameron Rooks prepared to do work in the middle. The Bears will be threatening a lot of people defensively with that type of rotation, and should help offset for the offseason losses.
"There has been a lot of thought that has gone into this process," Wallace said. "I talked with my family, my coaches, my teammates and I feel this is the best decision for me. I have an opportunity to finish what I started, earn my college degree, and help the team. Earning my degree from the University of California is important to me. I believe in what Coach Martin is building here. I’m excited to be a part of it."
"I’m happy for our guys," California head men’s basketball coach Cuonzo Martin said. "In order to be a great team, you have to have great players. You have to have guys that want to be a part of your family. This is probably the closest group of guys I have ever been around when it comes to a team. I’m happy for Tyrone, our program and our Cal fan base."
Celebrate!
All teammates out in hall with Tyrone, yelling "he's back!"
— Lindsay Brauner (@lindzcatharine) April 23, 2015