Duke freshman center Dereck Lively II announced Tuesday on social media that he will forgo his remaining college eligibility and enter the 2023 NBA draft.
Lively was named to the ACC All-Defensive Team after averaging 5.2 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.4 blocks and 1.1 assists on 65.8% shooting from the field in 34 games. His 82 blocked shots were the second-most in a season by a freshman in program history.
He was also named to the ACC All-Freshman Team.
The 7-footer emerged as an excellent rim protector and overall defender. He was eighth in the country in blocks and swatted at least one shot in 32 games. He had six blocks in their first-round win over Oral Roberts, a program record by a freshman in the NCAA Tournament.
He reflected a bit on his season during his draft announcement.
“I would like to first off thank my mother, coaches, family, teammates and everyone along the way,” Lively said. “I love everybody who has been a part of this journey. I should also thank the brotherhood. Overall, I just love Duke and everyone here. This has just been an amazing experience for me. I will be entering my name in the 2023 NBA draft.”
Lively is widely considered to be the top shot-blocker in the draft this year. He has improved his draft stock after a slow start to the year and is considered by many to be a mid-to-late first-round pick given his run down the stretch.
Underclassmen have until April 23 to declare for the draft.
[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=650262453]