Kris Dunn has always stuck to what he believes in.

So when making perhaps the biggest decision of his young life, Dunn was determined to follow his own path and not bend to outside pressures.

Dunn, a former New London High School basketball star, announced Friday that he'll return to Providence College for another season.

"That's Kris," said John Seldon of his son's decision-making process. "Kris has always been his own person. He doesn't like to follow people. ... I think it's a really good decision."

Dunn's decision came down to a strong desire to earn his college degree – he'll be a junior athletically and a senior academically next season – and continue to work on his all-around game so he'll be prepared for the NBA.

"He just feels he's not ready and he wants to get better," Seldon said.

A breakout sophomore season put Dunn in position to turn pro. But he resisted the temptation to put his name in the NBA draft pool. He was projected to go in the first round, likely in the 14 to 20 range.

"It shows his level of maturity and it shows that he doesn't want to just get there," Providence associate head coach Andre LaFleur said Friday. "He wants to get there and make an impact. You got to love that attitude.

"... It shows the type of family they are. They made a family decision and it wasn't a business decision. It was the right thing that they wanted to do for their son."

After his first full healthy collegiate season during which he was voted Big East Co-Player of the Year and led the Friars to the NCAA tournament, Dunn already can't wait for next season.

"I am excited about next season," Dunn said in a released statement. "I have seen this program accomplish a lot over the last three seasons and I would like to be part of some more success. I really enjoy being around my teammates, coaches and all the friends and family I have in Friartown.

"Lastly, I am looking forward to continuing my growth, improving as a basketball player and earning my diploma."

Dunn sat down with his family over Easter weekend to discuss his future. He pretty much made up his mind to return but wanted to wait for the whole pre-draft process to play out.

They received feedback from NBA officials. Agents called. Some people tried to pressure Dunn into jumping to the NBA, according to Seldon. All first-round picks receive guaranteed two-year contracts.

But Dunn stuck to his plan.

"He's not one of those kids that would be forced out," Seldon said. "People tried to convince him to leave. You put money in front of kids and most kids would grab it. ... But he's in no rush. He still has a lot of time. He knows what level he's at."

Since Providence's season ended with a disappointing first-round loss in the NCAA tournament, Dunn has been working out with teammates with the guidance of undergraduate assistant God Shammgod.

Dunn said Wednesday that he plans on polishing his all-around game and leadership skills during the off-season.

"He's been phenomenal in the workouts every day," LaFleur said. "He's been going to class. He's been a great leader and teammate. He loves it. ... He's been on an ascent that's been incredible.

LaFleur added the Dunn has moved into that special player category.

Dunn will likely be a preseason All-American this fall.

"I believe he is the top point guard in the country," head coach Ed Cooley said. "He has grown so much as a person and as a basketball player. We are excited that Kris will be part of our team next year and he will have the opportunity to earn his college degree.

"His ability and leadership will be instrumental to our success."

Seldon isn't worried that Dunn might be taking a risk by returning for another year instead of entering the draft. Two shoulder surgeries cut short Dunn's first two seasons.

"There was no risk at all going back to Providence," Seldon said. "He's enjoying his life. He's not pushed into being a man. When you go to the NBA, you've got to be a man really soon. He's enjoying college. After that, let's see what happens."

g.keefe@theday.com

Twitter: @GavinKeefe