It was originally reported yesterday by Cecil Hurt of the Tuscaloosa News, through Alabama head coach Nate Oats, that guards Kira Lewis Jr. and John Petty would be “testing the NBA waters.”
Less than a day later Lewis, who just wrapped up sophomore season in Tuscaloosa, took to Twitter t announce his decision to enter the 2020 NBA Draft while also retaining his remaining collegiate eligibility.
Lewis, who reclassified to join the 2018 class, began playing at Alabama as a 17-year-old, but despite his youth, he instantly became a leader and a fan-favorite.
In his two years with the Crimson Tide, Lewis average 34.5 minutes, a field goal percentage of 44.7 percent, 1,031 total points, 260 assists and only 183 turnovers.
In his message, Lewis thanks everyone from the fans, who he claims are the “best fans in college basketball” to his coaches, teammates and family.
Philippians 4:13 "I Can Do All Things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me"❤️🤝 pic.twitter.com/ExkTs67ZcL
— Kira Lewis Jr. (@Mr_Lewis3) March 25, 2020
There is only one piece bolded within the message: “I have decided to enter the NBA draft process while keeping my eligibility”.
Could this mean a potential return from Lewis? Likely not, according to the tweet shared by Hurt from Oats on Tuesday:
Nate Oats @nate_oats says John Petty and Kira Lewis will both place names into NBA Draft. “We may not have either of them back. There’s so much up in the air.” Says it will be “a pleasant surprise”if either returns. @AlabamaMBB
— Cecil Hurt (@CecilHurt) March 24, 2020
It seems as if the Lewis era in Tuscaloosa is coming to an end, but his legacy will remain.
He was one of the few consistent pieces during a time of uncertainty, which means he will be remembered at Alabama as a pioneer of change within a program that was desperately in need of a new look.
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