It’s great to hear about a college athlete – especially one who’s probably bound for the pros – making the most of the academic opportunities that go with being a scholarship student.

While sizing up his recruiting for next year, Kansas University men’s basketball coach Bill Self talked about Julian Wright, who many have predicted might leave the college ranks after this, his sophomore, season to enter the pro draft. Self said, however, that Wright already had indicated he plans to stay at KU for at least a third year in hopes of finishing a degree in communications.

By attending summer school, Self said, Wright now has “an unbelievable chance to earn his degree in three years.”

Well, if Wright is willing to believe it, others should too.

Many talented high school players see college as an athletic steppingstone where they will go to build an athletic record that will make them more attractive to pro scouts. Too often, they overlook the opportunity to get a degree that will benefit them in many ways whether they become pro athletes or not.

Wright is, no doubt, as eager as any college athlete to graduate to the pros, but it’s nice to see him also place a high priority on completing an academic degree. We wish him the best of luck in both his academic and athletic pursuits.