And so it has begun.
As anticipated, LSU forward Trendon Watford declared for the upcoming NBA Draft on Wednesday afternoon.
Watford, who is hiring an agent, is the first of four players we expected to see take a step to go on to the next level at this point. Moving forward, we can expect to see Cam Thomas, Darius Days and Javonte Smart declare their intentions as well.
Here’s a look at the full statement Watford took to Twitter with:
“To the greatest university of them all… Thank you for embracing a kid from Birmingham, Alabama, as one of your own,” he wrote. “It’s been an honor to wear the purple and gold. These past two years have been a complete joy. From my current teammates to my past teammates, thank you all for constantly pushing me and allowing me to grow as a player. Without you guys, none of this would be possible.
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“To my coaches, thank you for holding me accountable and challenging me daily, on and off the court, to be the best I can possibly be and allowing me to be myself. Through thick and thin, you guys continued to believe in me and I’m forever grateful for that. Thank you to my family and loved ones for always providing me with love and support. I wouldn’t be in the position I am today without y’all.
“To the fans and the city of Baton Rouge, I appreciate the love and support you have shown me from the day I stepped on campus. LSU will always have a special place in my heart and I’m proud to be able to call Baton Rouge my second home.
“Furthermore, with the support from my family, friends, coaches and teammates, I will be declaring for the 2021 NBA Draft with the plan to hire an agent. This has been a lifelong dream of mine. Geaux Tigers.”
As a sophomore last season, Watford averaged 16.3 points, 7.4 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game in 28 games.
He shot 48% from the floor and 65.1% from the free-throw line. It will be interesting to see where the player who earned First-Team All-SEC honors ends up as he begins his journey at the professional level.
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