The surprise Wednesday was little when Arkansas forward Jordan Walsh made his announcement. He had hinted such a decision was coming with his Monday video release.
But Wednesday morning, just after most Hogs fans had arrived at work for their 8-to-5 gigs, Walsh made it official. The Texas native was declaring for the NBA Draft after one season with the Razorbacks.
Walsh started 22 of his 36 games with for Arkansas last year, averaging 7.1 points and 3.9 rebounds in 24.5 minutes. He shot 28% from 3-point range, though, and at 6-foot-7, it’s that part of his game that makes him a projected late-second-round pick on draft boards. Some don’t have him listed whatsoever.
Still, Walsh was a constant. He played in every game and was regularly mentioned by coach Eric Musselman for his intensity and aggressive play, in a positive way.
Walsh became the fifth Arkansas player to declare for the draft, following guards Nick Smith Jr., Anthony Black, Ricky Council and Devo Davis. Smith and Black are expected lottery picks. Council is expected to go in the second round. Davis isn’t on most draft boards. All could theoretically return for another year in Fayetteville, though it seems unlikely any do, save perhaps Davis.
Musselman has already received commitments from five players out of the transfer portal, most of whom play guard or wing, the positions vacated by the aforementioned.
[mm-video type=playlist id=01fc3h383th881vsf1 player_id=01eqbvp13nn1gy6hd4 image=]