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. After a stellar season where he was named a first team All-Southeastern Conference pick by The Associated Press and league coaches, he’s now transitioning to a professional career. His scoring average per game saw an increase of 10 points from his sophomore season, averaging 14.0 points while starting in 30 of the 31 games. This greatly contributed to the Wildcats’ (25-6) achievement of the SEC regular season title, before the season was called off due to concerns with the coronavirus.
Richards achieved a national ranking of fourth in shooting with a 64% accuracy. He also made it to the SEC all-defensive team, averaging 7.8 rebounds and 2.13 blocks per game.
On Tuesday, Richards from Kingston, Jamaica, expressed his gratitude towards his Kentucky coaches and teammates for his consistent progress in a statement. He declared his intention to chase his ultimate dream of becoming an NBA player and added, “My time at Kentucky has prepared me for this next step.”
Richards’ declaration comes a day following leading scorer Immanuel Quickley’s announcement for the draft. Earlier, guards Ashton Hagans announced his decision last Sunday, and Tyrese Maxey turned pro the previous week.
