Florida’s star guard Tre Mann declares for NBA draft

One of the most talented guards in this draft class is declaring for the NBA Draft and hiring an agent effectively ending his college career

In a move that shouldn’t come as much of a surprise, star Gators point guard Tre Mann announced on Wednesday morning that he will be entering the 2021 NBA draft. In an accompanying statement sent to ESPN, Mann said he intends to hire an agent, which would mean he’s forfeiting his remaining college eligibility.

“After much consideration, I have decided to take the next step in my basketball career and will declare for the 2021 NBA draft,” Mann told ESPN. “To Gator nation, your love and support will always hold a special place in my heart. I will be hiring an agent to help guide me through this process.”

Mann averaged 16 points in 2020-21, but over the SEC and NCAA Tournaments, his production skyrocketed with him averaging 21 points. He’s seen his NBA stock rise considerably in recent weeks, and it appears Mann feels ready to try his hand at the professional ranks.

“My season at Florida was filled with a lot of individual growth with the significant increase of playing time and emphasis on fulfilling my role,” Mann said. “However, this year was filled with adversity in [the form of] COVID and the loss of Keyontae [Johnson]. While we didn’t reach our goal as a team in the NCAA tournament, it was a great experience nonetheless.”

He’s one of the most talented guards in this draft class, and he should be a first-round pick. Florida hasn’t had a player selected in the NBA Draft since Erik Murphy in 2013.

It’s unclear how the format of the draft will work this season, as no dates have been announced for the event (or for deadlines for players to withdraw). But Mann has some experience with the process as he tested the waters last offseason. Now, after his sophomore season, it appears he’s gone for good.

“I would like to thank Coach White and his staff at the University of Florida for believing in me and helping to shape me into the man and player I am today,” he said. “Thank you to all my teammates who shared the Gator uniform with me for the last two seasons. Thank you to my family for always providing me with love and support. No words can ever describe how grateful I am to you.”

[lawrence-related id=37358,37175,38882,38818,38724]

[vertical-gallery id=21273]