Providence — The list of college basketball players bolting school early for the NBA seems to grow longer each spring.

Projected first round picks are almost certain to leave.

Providence College’s Kris Dunn is one exception.

It’s important to him to complete his college education, something that he can accomplish with another year at Providence College.

The NBA can wait.

Dunn spoke to the media about his decision, which he announced Friday, for the first time on Tuesday.

“The reason I came back to school, I wanted to graduate from college and get my degree,” Dunn said. “That was the first and most important thing that I discussed with coach (Ed) Cooley and my family.

“From a basketball standpoint, I think I need to improve on a lot of things, to mature as a player and get ready for the next level.

“Most of all, I love playing for Providence College. It’s a great program. I love playing with my teammates and love playing under coach Cooley and the coaching staff. ... We’re just hoping next year to take the program to the next level.”

While Dunn, a proud New London High School graduate, answered questions in Alumni Hall, Cooley stood nearby.

Cooley wasn’t surprised about his star point guard’s decision. All signs pointed to Dunn returning.

Still, Dunn made a statement by opting for school over the lure of fulfilling a life-long dream to play in the NBA.

“It speaks volumes of his maturity and his growth,” Cooley said. “I think it’s good for college basketball to show that you can be patient and still live a dream. I think it’s good for Providence College.”

With the multi-talented Dunn back, odds of the Friars making another NCAA tournament trip greatly increase.

Dunn will be the reigning Big East Conference player of the year and All-American candidate. He’ll assume the leadership duties on a young, talented team.

He’ll also be the face of the program.

“Kris will be who Kris is going to be,” Cooley said. “He’ll be dominant. He’ll be ferocious when he has to be. … He has a chance to be the best basketball player in the country.”

Dunn knows he has to improve his jump shot and decision making and cut down on his turnovers. He’s working on being a more vocal leader.

His goal is to continue to elevate the Providence basketball program.

"I'm in a great spot," Dunn said. "But it's not just me, it's a team thing."

If all goes according to plan, Dunn will be in great position next spring.

He looks forward to his graduation day. He’s not worried about where he’ll be picked in the 2016 NBA Draft.

“My family is going to be proud of me once I get my degree…,” Dunn said. “It’s going to be a big thing for my family.”

g.keefe@theday.com

Twitter: @GavinKeefe