Sizzling Siberian Vlad Morozov Goes Pro Early

LOS ANGELES, California, April 29. EARLIER this evening, USC's Sizzling Siberian Vlad Morozov made his intentions known that he is going pro via Twitter. Last month, the Russian sprint star put on a clinic at the NCAA Division I Men's Championships where he cleared the 18 second barrier in the 50 free in relay duty, and also set the NCAA record in the 100-yard free.

While the junior still had a year of eligibility, he definitely saw the money on the table after putting together an outstanding run at the Russian Championships earlier this month as well, where he posted the top 100-meter freestyle time in the world, and a top-five effort in the 50 free. He's also one of the more versatile sprinters in the world with strong times in the backstroke and breaststrokes as well. He's definitely going to be able to pocket some cash during the FINA World Cup this year with his versatility.

This time I'm returning to the grind as a professional swimmer. Will definitely miss collegiate swimming and racing with my boys. Fight on!

— Vladimir Morozov (@v1addy) April 30, 2013

The big questions that remain are who he will sign with in both the agency and sponsorship departments. Morozov did confirm to Swimming World that he is currently weighing a few offers.

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