Expect UNC basketball players to declare early for the NBA Draft this year.

“I think that some of our guys will try to go to the combine, will declare and not hire an agent,” head coach Roy Williams said. “Then see how they play in the combine and I have no problem with that.”

Williams did not name any specific players he expects to declare, but there are a number of Tar Heels, including Isaiah Hicks, Justin Jackson and Joel Berry, who have pro potential. He said he wants a definitive answer from his players next week.

More players are expected to declare this year than previous years because of a rule change made by the NBA, which allows players to workout with a team and go to the combine without losing their eligibility. The combine is an event hosted by the NBA where potential draft picks get to showcase their skills and meet with team officials

“I think this should be better,” Williams said of the rule changes. “Especially if the NBA does what they say they’re going to do. If they will really be straightforward and honest with the kids and say ‘you’ll probably be top 30 or top 60’ or whatever.”

Previously players had to decide in April whether or not to forgo their remaining years of eligibility. This year, if they don’t hire an agent, underclassmen will have until 10 days after the NBA Draft Combine in May to make their decision. Williams said with the way the new rules are set up, more players should go to the combine.

ESPN reported on Wednesday evening that Jackson is expected to enter the draft and not hire an agent.

Not hiring an agent allows Jackson to go through the process and leave open the option to return to Carolina.

“If you play two minutes a game I don’t think it’s really necessary to do that,” he said. “But if you’re a good college player, why would you not?”

Players taken in the first round get two years of guaranteed money, as opposed to second-round picks or undrafted players who are guaranteed nothing.

“I mean I’ve had an NBA team took one of my players one time said ‘we don’t want anybody, but we had to take somebody,'” he said. “To me you should go to have some guaranteed money. I don’t think anybody should go not really feeling strongly they’re going to be a first-round pick.”

Players have until April 24 to declare and those that don’t hire an agent will have until May 25 to return to school.

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