TAMPA - As expected, University of South Florida junior guard Dominique Jones has sent a letter expressing his interest in entering the NBA Draft to the league's New York City headquarters.

Jones will now wait for the NBA's general counsel to send a response with an application for entry in the NBA Draft.

"I am supportive of Dominique and his decision to submit his name into the NBA Draft," said Coach Stan Heath. "I will assist him in gathering information about his NBA status and help Dominique make the best decision in regards to his future."

Jones continues to stand by his March 17 statement, when he said, "I have not made a decision on going to the NBA or returning to USF. At this time I plan on gathering information on my status and will likely test the waters to further determine my positioning within the draft."

After receiving information from the NBA's general counsel, Jones will fill out the NBA Draft Application Form, which requires players to submit academic and background information for use by the league's scouts and executives.

Starting April 29, teams will conduct workouts for early entrants and Jones will receive his review at that time. If he decides to return to USF, Jones must pull out his draft application by 5 p.m. on May 8.

 As long as Jones does not sign with an agent, he retains his amateur status and would be able to return to play basketball for USF.