On Friday, Kentucky Wildcats forward Isaiah Jackson announced that he will keep his name in the NBA draft and forgo his remaining collegiate eligibility with the program.
Jackson was named to the SEC All-Defensive Team after averaging 8.4 points, 6.6 rebounds and 2.6 blocked shots in 25 games with the Wildcats. He led all SEC players in blocks while he ranked 15th in the nation, recording at least three blocks in nine games.
The freshman announced in March that he’d test the waters while leaving open the possibility of returning to school. He is most commonly projected to be a mid-to-late first-round pick in July, which likely influenced his decision to remain in the draft.
I’m happy for @IJackson22 and his family, Seeing his growth this season was amazing. His metrics are off the charts. Whoever drafts Isaiah is going to get an unbelievable defender who can guard multiple positions and protect the rim. https://t.co/eHWzonSb3v
— John Calipari (@UKCoachCalipari) May 28, 2021
Jackson projects to be a strong defensive player at the next level given his skill set and versatility. He is viewed as perhaps the best shot-blocker in the class while he also showed progress on the offensive end of the floor toward the end of the season.
The NBA draft is set to take place on July 29.
This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
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