WASHINGTON, April 11 (Xinhua) -- Duke freshman RJ Barrett announced on his social media that he will sign up for the 2019 NBA draft.

"RJ's ready to level up," the Canadian rising star tweeted with hashtag "Duke in the NBA" and a video.

"It's a dream of mine to play for Duke ever since I was a young kid. It's also a dream of mine to play in the NBA and have great success there," the Barrett said in the video. "Discussing with my family, my coaches, I decide I will be declaring for the 2019 NBA Draft."

Barrett averaged 22.6 points, 7.6 rebounds and 4.3 assists in his freshman season with Duke. The 19-year-old joined hand with Zion Williamson of the same class to help the Blue Devils secure ACC championship, although the top seed failed to reach Final Four falling to Michigan State in the quarterfinals.

Barrett is the first Duke player to declare for the 2019 NBA Draft and is believed to be a lottery pick.