Bodog Beat

This is one of the last times you'll see Derrick Rose in a Memphis uniform. (AP Images)

Hope you enjoyed the ride, Memphis basketball fans. Because now it's all over.

Phenom PG Derrick Rose made it official this afternoon, formally announcing he'd be bypassing the remaining years of his collegiate career to test NBA Draft waters.

"This is not a step I take lightly, although it has always been a dream of mine to play in the NBA. After weighing all of the options — with which I am blessed — I feel that it is the right time for me to take this step," Rose said in a statement released by Memphis. "My only regret is not winning a national title for the University of Memphis."

The decision came as no surprise to anyone with an ounce of basketball IQ. Rose was the best player at his position this season – despite being a freshman – and many saw him as the best player in the country. He ran roughshod over all comers in the NCAA tournament, including a virtual destruction of UCLA's Darren Collison – widely regarded to be a first-round pick in the NBA Draft – in the national semifinals. For the tournament, Rose averaged 20/8 points, 6.5 rebounds and 6.0 assists per game, drawing comparisons to Jason Kidd.

Rose is expected to be the No. 2 pick behind Kansas State phenom Michael Beasley in June's draft.

NBA Basketball Betting!