Florida Freshman Bradley Beal held a press conference on Friday morning where he formally announced that he would be leaving the University to pursue a career in the NBA. Here are some things that Beal had to say about his decision.

"Everything about this place is beautiful, I'm sad I have to give it up for something else but there are bigger things out there." -Beal

— Julie Quittner (@JQuittner) April 13, 2012

Beal seemed like someone who really wanted to be part of the University for four years, and did not have the intention of coming in as a one and done type of guy. But it also seems like the allure of the NBA was simply too much for him to pass up.

Beal Says seeing NBA games on TV or hearing the word "NBA" was signs to him lately ...it seemed to follow him

— Julie Quittner (@JQuittner) April 13, 2012

But the decision wasn't easy, and Beal had plenty of reasons to return to Florida. Not the least of which is that the Gators are going to have a very competitive team again next year.

Beal says number one reason he would have come back is chance to win a national title

— Julie Quittner (@JQuittner) April 13, 2012

For more on the Florida Gators and Bradley Beal's decision, visit SB Nation's Gators blog Alligator Army. For more on other players declaring for the NBA draft visit SB Nation's dedicated StoryStream.