Adam Zagoria covers basketball at all levels. He is the author of two books and an award-winning journalist whose articles have appeared in ESPN The Magazine, SLAM, Sheridan Hoops, Sports Illustrated, Basketball Times and in newspapers nationwide.
NCAA Tournament record-setter Markquis Nowell enters 2023 NBA Draft
By SAM LANCE
After making his name known on the national stage by putting up 24 points and 14 assists per game in the NCAA Tournament, Kansas State point guard Markquis Nowell will enter the 2023 NBA Draft.
The NCAA Tournament single-game assist record holder (19) announced the move via Twitter.
“To play in the NBA has been a dream of mine since I was seven years old and I finally have the opportunity into a reality,” Nowell said in his announcement post. “Continue to pray for me as I embark on this new journey and chapter in my life. And never forget… Every man a Wildcat!”
Under Jerome Tang in his first season as K-State’s head coach, Nowell blossomed and secured several postseason honors. The 5-foot-8, 160-pound point guard from Harlem (NY), was named All Big-12 First Team, AP Third Team All-American and a Bob Cousy Point Guard of the Year Award Finalist. This was Nowell’s final year of NCAA eligibility.
“Playing for Kansas State has been nothing short of a dream come true,” said Nowell, who spent three years at Arkansas Little Rock before transferring to K-State. “From wearing the script ‘Wildcat’ across my chest, to a ridiculously loud Bramlage with the most passionate fans in the world. I’m grateful for it all.”
Nowell averaged 17.6 points, 8.3 assists and 3.5 rebounds for Kansas State in 2022-23. He also shot 38.6% from the field and 35.5% from 3-point range.
“To my teammates, coaching staff, Gene Taylor and everyone who works their magic behind the scenes: thank you!,” Nowell said. “All those late hours in the gym and all the late nights working allowed me to have the success that I’ve been able to have.”
If Nowell is drafted, he will be the first K-State player since 2017 to do so, and just fourth Wildcat since 2000. The other recent K-State draft picks include Wesley Iwundu (2nd round, 2017), Michael Beasley (No. 2 overall, 2008) and Henry Walker (2nd round, 2008).
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