Saint Louis University center, Ian Vouyoukas, has declared himself eligible for the 2006 NBA draft, but will keep his options open. Vouyoukas, who hails from Greece, has decided not to hire an agent which will allow him to gauge the interest teams may have in him without affecting his eligibility just yet.

“It has been my lifelong dream to pursue an NBA career. My family and I believe now is the best time to utilize the process that is available to us and keep my option open to continue my career at Saint Louis,” Vouyoukas said.

The 6-10 junior can keep his name in the draft pool until June 18 without losing his eligibility. The draft is June 28.

Vouyoukas had quite a turnaround during his junior season. He averaged 13.9 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.9 blocks per game in 2005-2006. His 55 blocked shots were a SLU record for a junior. As a sophomore, he averaged 6.9 points and 5.4 rebounds per game.

Last season’s efforts earned Vouyoukas a first-team All-Atlantic 10 honor and he was also named the league’s most improved player.