Auburn Tigers forward Jabari Smith Jr. on Tuesday announced that he will declare for the 2022 NBA draft and forgo his remaining collegiate eligibility.
Smith, who was voted a consensus All-American, averaged 16.9 points, 7.4 rebounds, two assists, 1.1 steals and one blocked shot on 42% shooting from 3-point range. He set the Auburn single-season freshman record for points (576) and 3-pointers (79).
He was also named the SEC Freshman of the Year.
The 6-foot-10 standout is in the conversation to become the No. 1 pick this year. He has impressed as a player who can create for himself and shoot from all over the court. He has also shown he can push the break on his own and projects to fit perfectly at the next level.
"Auburn will forever be my home." – @jabarismithll #WarEagle pic.twitter.com/36zVCThC91
— Auburn Basketball (@AuburnMBB) April 5, 2022
The decision to enter the NBA draft was likely a foregone conclusion for Smith. He established himself as one of the top players in the country and performed at a high level all season long and will be one of the first players off the board this year.
The 2022 NBA draft will take place on June 23.
This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
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