Will He Stay or Go?

Will Augustus Gilchrist return for his senior season? (Picture credits: www.gousfbulls.com)

The 2011 season roles and the Bulls continue to struggle on the court, it's time to start looking towards the future. As Stan Heath begins to look at his roster for the 2011-2012 season, one question will be soon approaching them, will Augustus Gilchrist return for his senior season or will he opt out and head to the NBA? [keep reading]

Gilchrist, the 6'10" 245-pound junior is one of the more reliable scorers for the Bulls this season, despite the lack of wins for the team. Gilchrist averages 12.9 points per game and 6.7 rebounds per game as well (although his numbers have greatly decreased over the past few games). He can dominate in the paint with his size and has more than enough ability to create his own shot and get around defenders. He also has range and can shoot from 3-point range with above average accuracy. On defense, he is a solid rebounder and alters shots due to his big frame and long wing span.

Gilchrist had some issues earlier this season when he decided he was going to leave the team, but in less than 24-hours, seemed to have a change of heart. He returned to the program and has not had any issues since.

Gilchrist is a solid player for the Bulls and gives the team a consistent scoring threat and solid defender. It is way to early to tell if he will skip his senior season and head to the NBA or come back and try to turn this mess around. The Bulls will have new facilities, but another season of losing and battling for last place in the conference could be in store for next year, so this may also sway his decision. I can't say for certain and it is probably beyond way to early to predict, but I think he leaves.

So what do you think USF fans? Will Gilchrist return for his season and try to help the Bulls work their way out of the basement? Or will Gilchrist leave for the NBA and leave the Bulls looking for answers on offense? Leave your opinions and let the debate begin!