Jalen Adams has been living out his dream playing for the UConn basketball program.

He plans to extend that dream for another season.

On Sunday, Adams announced in a video titled "Dear UConn Nation" on his twitter account that he's returning for his senior season.

Adams, a 6-foot-3 guard, hopes to help turn around the Huskies, who've endured two straight losing seasons, and improve his NBA draft stock.

"Although the journey has not always been what I envisioned, I am reminded what great is every day I come to the gym and see those four national championship banners," Adams said in the video. "My legacy as a UConn Husky is important to me. I am more determined than ever to live up to the expectations of great UConn guards and deliver a championship season for my university and our amazing fans."

"With that being said, I'd like to announce that I'm returning to UConn Nation for my senior year. I am excited to work with coach (Dan) Hurley and lead us into the new era of UConn basketball. I'm fully committed to my career and education. Another year of development and growth will prepare me to achieve my ultimate goal, an NBA career. See you in November."

Speaking at Hurley's press conference late last month, Adams said he planned to explore his options before making a decision about his future.

Adams could have tested the NBA draft waters like his backcourt partner Christian Vital decided to do last week and not hire an agent so the door would remain open to return to school. Neither player is projected to be drafted.

Instead, Adams will try to leave his mark on the program just as national championship guards Ryan Boatright, Shabazz Napier and Kemba Walker did before him. On his journey, he followed in the footsteps of Napier, who's also from Roxbury, Mass.

Odds of UConn's being more competitive next season greatly improve with Adams back. Adams led the team in scoring (a career-best 18.1 points), assists (4.7) and ranked third in rebounding (4.2) and earned All-American Athletic Conference second team honors. He's the most experienced returning Husky, seeing action in 98 career games, starting 73.

He is expected to be an AAC player of the year candidate next season.

g.keefe@theday.com