PJ Washington to withdraw from draft, return to Kentucky

After exploring the option of being a one-and-done player, PJ Washington has decided to return to Kentucky for his sophomore season, his father said Wednesday.

Washington’s decision left two players — Jarrred Vanderbilt and Wenyen Gabriel —still undeclared about whether to remain in this year’s NBA Draft or play for Kentucky next season.

Washington made no secret of the exploratory nature of his entry into this year’s NBA Draft. By posting a double-double in his first game at the NBA Combine this month, he made staying in the draft more plausible.

“I would say PJ really helped himself,” UK Coach John Calipari said of the impact made by Washington’s play at the Combine. “I’ve got to really…