Purdue Boilermakers sophomore Jaden Ivey on Thursday announced that he will declare for the 2022 NBA draft, forgoing his remaining collegiate eligibility.
Ivey, who was a consensus All-American, averaged 17.3 points, 4.9 rebounds and 3.1 assists in 36 games. He finished as one of just two players in the country (Paolo Banchero, Duke) to record at least 600 points, 175 rebounds, 100 assists, 30 steals and 20 blocked shots.
With Ivey leading the way, the Boilermakers advanced to the Sweet 16 in the NCAA Tournament. He averaged 16.3 points, five rebounds and two assists in three games on 37.5% shooting from 3-point range as Purdue lost to No. 15 seed Saint Peter’s.
đź–¤ pic.twitter.com/we2EGvDhrE
— Jaden Ivey (@IveyJaden) March 31, 2022
The 6-foot-4 guard was considered one of the top returning players this season, and that decision to come back paid off in a big way. Ivey boosted his draft stock throughout the season and appears to be a lock as a top-five pick on June 23.
Ivey is as explosive as they come with the ball in his hands, something that can fit in with any NBA team. His decision-making and shot creation seem to have improved throughout the season, which should help him now that he is transitioning to the next level.
The 20-year-old projects to be a dynamic player at the next level that can eventually develop into a franchise cornerstone. He accomplished quite a bit in just two years in college and will be looking to carry that momentum into the pre-draft process.
Underclassmen have until April 24 to declare for the NBA draft.
This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
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