Harrellson withdraws from Portsmouth event

Kentucky center Josh Harrellson has withdrawn from the Portsmouth Invitational - the NBA's top pre-draft tournament for seniors - due to illiness, UK announced on Tuesday.

UK's medical staff has recommended that the 6-foot-10 Harrellson not have any physical activity for a week due to flu-like symptoms.

Harrellson played 28 minutes and had six points and four rebounds in UK's 56-55, season-ending loss to Connecticut in the national semifinals.

Immediately after the game Harrellson said he intended to participate in the pre-draft event that runs from Wednesday to Saturday at Churchland High School in Portsmouth, Va.

"I'm extremely disappointed that I won't be able to participate in the Portsmouth Invitational," Harrellson said in a UK release. "I was really looking forward to showcasing my abilities among the top seniors in the nation. My focus now is on getting well and concentrating on my school work before working out for teams."

Harrellson, UK's only senior, averaged 12 points and 8.1 rebounds this postseason and has thought to have raised his professional prospects greatly during the Wildcats' run to the Final Four.

The St. Charles, Mo., native also earned NCAA East Regional All-Tournament and SEC All-Tournament honors, leading the Southeastern Conference in field-goal percentage (.611) and ranking second in rebounding (8.7).

"It's unfortunate that Josh will not be able to participate in this year's Portsmouth event," UK coach John Calipari said in a release. "I know he was really honored to be selected and was looking forward to the opportunity. We'll do everything we can to help him prepare once he's cleared to return."