Former Tennessee forward Julian Phillips on Wednesday told Jonathan Givony of ESPN that he will remain in the 2023 NBA draft and forgo his remaining college eligibility.
Phillips was named to the SEC All-Freshman team after averaging 8.3 points, 4.7 rebounds and 1.4 assists on 41.1% shooting from the field in 32 games. He scored in double figures 13 times, including a season-high 25 points on Nov. 24 versus USC.
The 6-foot-8 forward originally left the option open to return to school when he declared for the draft. However, after a strong showing at the combine, the projected second-round pick was expected to stay in the draft and leave school.
NEWS: Julian Phillips, the No. 34 prospect in ESPN's draft rankings, will keep his name in the 2023 NBA Draft, he told ESPN. Phillips has received positive feedback from NBA teams after a strong pre-draft process, causing him to forgo exploring the NCAA transfer portal. pic.twitter.com/EGnPVUZk8W
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) May 31, 2023
Phillips entered the season with high expectations and was projected to be a potential first-round pick. He didn’t quite perform to that level on the court and is considered a mid-to-late second-round pick after an inconsistent year.
The 19-year-old also opted to enter the transfer portal after declaring for the draft and was said to be weighing his options for next season. He received positive feedback from teams throughout the pre-draft process and will turn pro.
He had until 11:59 p.m. EDT on Wednesday to withdraw from the draft.
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