Projected first-round pick Nikola Jovic will reportedly remain in the 2022 NBA draft after a strong season in the Adriatic League, according to Jonathan Givony of ESPN.
Jovic, who was born in Serbia, was named the ABA League Top Prospect after averaging 12 points, 4.8 rebounds and 3.6 assists in 29 games with KK Mega Basket last season. He shot 41.4% from the field, including 31.5% from 3-point range.
The 6-foot-11 debuted with Mega Basket’s senior team last year and previously played with Serbia in the 2021 FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup. He was named to the all-tournament team after averaging 18.1 points, 8.3 rebounds and 2.9 assists in seven games.
Jovic had until 5 p.m. EDT on Monday to withdraw from the draft.
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Jovic is widely projected to be a mid-to-late first-round pick. He can space the floor and has also shown promise as a ballhandler and rebounder. He has been on the NBA radar for some time and even received votes as the best international player by GMs.
The 19-year-old has worked out with several teams ahead of the draft, including the Denver Nuggets, Houston Rockets and Minnesota Timberwolves among others. Jovic enters the draft with as much experience as any prospect and should be a high pick, as a result.
The NBA draft will take place on June 23.
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