July 11, 2008

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Doneal Mack, a rising junior for the 2008-09 season, is returning to the University of Memphis, Tiger head coach John Calipari announced Friday. Mack had enrolled in summer school at the University of New Orleans, but withdrew after one week of classes.

"I'm happy for Doneal, and I'm proud of our university for allowing him to return," said Calipari. "When working with kids, they sometimes make illogical decisions. Once again, our administration steps up and does the right thing by letting this young man return and attend this great university."

Last season, Mack played in 39 games and averaged 6.9 points and 1.6 boards. He shot 36.3 percent from the arc and hit a team-best 66 three-pointers.

Mack was a member of the 2007-08 Tiger squad that won an NCAA record 38 games (38-2 record) and played in the NCAA championship game. Memphis swept the Conference USA regular season and tournament titles and won the NCAA Tournament South Region crown.

For his career to date, Mack has been a part of Memphis teams that have posted an incredible 71-6 record (33-4 in 2006-07; 38-2 in 2007-08). The 71 victories makes the Tigers the second-winningest program over a two-year span in NCAA Division I history (Montana State is first with 72 wins from 1928-29).