By Brian A. Lester

Duke's Mike Dunleavy is doing the right thing. Isn't he?

Yes. He has to be. It's absurd to think that Dunleavy's decision to go to the NBA is a bad one, although it is somewhat surprising because Dunleavy is one of those players you expected to stay in school from start to finish.

Such is life, though, and there are plenty of reasons why Dunleavy is making the right choice.

For starters, Dunleavy grew up in a home where basketball isn't just a game, it's life. He also played for one of the most storied college basketball teams in the nation and had the privilege of being coached by one of the best bench leaders in the business.

And if that isn't enough, his father, Mike Dunleavy Sr., played and coached in the NBA and can use that experience to his son's advantage by telling him everything he will need to know to survive in the fast-paced world of professional basketball.

Yes, Dunleavy is making the right move. He belongs in the league the same way Michael Jordan belongs in a NIKE commercial, and he will be successful.

OK. So there is a chance Dunleavy could end up as a bust. But I doubt it. I've seen Dunleavy play in person and let me tell you, he made a good impression on me. The kid definitely has game.

Duke was playing rival North Carolina State in Raleigh two seasons ago. The Entertainment and Sports Arena was packed with 18,623 rabid Wolfpack fans, providing an atmosphere that had enough electricity in it to light up the entire state.

Dunleavy would only score 11 points on the night, but he also dished out six assists and did all of the little things coaches love, like chase down loose balls and play tough defense. His presence on the court was huge and his versatility outstanding.

Duke won that game, 84-78, and would go on to win the national championship later that year. And it was in the title game against Arizona that Dunleavy proved to all of us just how big of a money player he can be.

His effort against the Wildcats was flat out sensational. There was the final tally of 21 points, including 18 in the second half. There was the blistering effort from beyond the arc in which he knocked down five treys in nine attempts. It was Dunleavy's night to shine, and it made us realize this player was destined for great things.

Now, those great things will come at the next level instead of at Duke.

Sure, Dunleavy could stay in school for his senior season and savor, for one last time, the thrill of playing inside sweltering Cameron Indoor Stadium in front of frenzied fans who symbolize everything a devoted college basketball fan should be.

Sure, Dunleavy could stay in school and no doubt enter the season as the leading candidate for national player of the year honors.

And sure, Dunleavy could stay in school and make Duke an immediate favorite to win the national championship.

But Dunleavy has made up his mind. He is going to the NBA.

For others, leaving school early might not be such a wise move. Yinka Dare comes to mind.

Dunleavy, though, is doing the right thing. He is ready for the next level.

All he needs now is an opportunity to prove it.

Brian Lester is a sportswriter in Ohio and can be reached via e-mail at BAL4@hotmail.com