LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) — Kentucky forward Nick Richards will enter the NBA draft and forego his final season of collegiate eligibility by signing with an agency.
The 6-foot-11 junior is the fourth starter from the Wildcats to go professional. He’s just finished an exceptional season where he was named a first team All-Southeastern Conference selection by both The Associated Press and league coaches. He saw a significant increase in his average score per game, from his sophomore season to 14.0, starting in 30 out of 31 matches. This helped the Wildcats (25-6) secure the SEC regular season title before the postseason was cancelled due to coronavirus concerns.
Richards also achieved a national ranking of fourth in shooting with a 64% accuracy rate. In addition, he was included in the SEC all-defensive team, averaging 7.8 rebounds and 2.13 blocks per game.
On Tuesday, Richards, hailing from Kingston, Jamaica, expressed his gratitude towards Kentucky coaches and teammates for his consistent progress in a statement. He stated his intention to chase his ultimate dream of becoming an NBA player, mentioning, “My time at Kentucky has prepared me for this next step.”
Richards’ announcement follows leading scorer Immanuel Quickley’s draft declaration just a day prior. Last week, guards Ashton Hagans and Tyrese Maxey also turned pro on Sunday.
