Forward Bonzie Colson coming back to Notre Dame for senior season

Notre Dame forward Bonzie Colson will return for his senior season, the school announced on Monday.

"After a lot of discussion with my family and coach [Mike] Brey about possibly entering the NBA draft this season, I have decided to pursue my dream of earning a degree from the University of Notre Dame and return for my final year of eligibility," Colson said.

"I promised myself and my family when I committed to Notre Dame that I would earn a degree from the University and help lead the program to new heights. Returning to play another season with my brothers and the possibility of hanging more banners in Purcell Pavilion and establishing ourselves as one of the best teams in program history is an opportunity of a lifetime."

Colson, a 6-foot-5 power forward, averaged 17.8 points and 10.1 rebounds this past season en route to first-team all-ACC honors. Despite being undersized to play in the post at the next level, Colson's length and rebounding ability have him ranked No. 36 in Chad Ford's top 100.

"It's exciting to know that Bonzie will be back for his final season," Brey said. "He has an opportunity to finish his career as one of the best to take the court here and I am impressed with the way he has handled this decision."

Notre Dame finished 26-10 after losing to West Virginia in the second round of the NCAA Tournament.