Marcus Taylor has no intention of returning to MSU next season.

In a press conference Wednesday night, Taylor apologized for misleading Spartan fans and made it clear he intends to be drafted in the 2002 NBA Draft on June 26.

“I’ve been working my whole life to get to this point, where I’d be able to put my name in the draft with confidence,” Taylor said.

“It’s full steam ahead now. I feel if I look back I won’t put my whole heart into it.”

Taylor already worked out with the Toronto Raptors and Detroit Pistons, and is working out with the Washington Wizards this morning.

Taylor has not signed with an agent, leaving open the window for him to withdraw from the draft by June 19. But he said he has no intention of doing that.

“I haven’t hired an agent and that’s because I don’t really need one at this point,” Taylor said. “It has nothing to do with whether I’m staying or leaving my options open.”

Taylor’s father, James, said the decision was all his son’s.

“My wife and I are very proud of the way he’s grown up,” James Taylor said. “He’s a man now, and we’re going to support him 100 percent.”

Taylor will get his best feel for the NBA game June 4-7 at the NBA Pre-Draft Camp in Chicago.

Taylor said he plans to participate in all the games, workouts and physicals.

Taylor said the mock drafts that don’t have him going in the first round haven’t bothered him.

“I know my ability and what some of these scouts have told me,” he said.

“When I get out there and work out for these teams, they’re definitely impressed. I just want to make sure I keep on turning heads.”

Taylor said he will miss playing at MSU. He said the Spartans developed a family atmosphere, but he knows they’ll be fine.

“They should have a great team next year,” Taylor said. “I definitely think they’ll be at the top of the league again.

“Michigan State is a great program and I’ve enjoyed every minute of my two years here.”