By JACOB POLACHECK
Kansas redshirt freshman forward Jalen Wilson will test the NBA Draft process, he announced Friday via Twitter.
“I am grateful to say that with prayer and discussion with Coach [Bill] Self and my family, I will test the NBA draft process,” Wilson said.
Wilson, a 6-foot-8, 215-pound small forward out of Denton, Texas, averaged 12.1 points and a team-high 8.2 rebounds as a redshirt freshman during the 2020-21 season.
He appeared in 28 games, making 26 starts and was named to the 2021 Big 12 All-Newcomer and Big 12 All-Freshman teams.
After posting eight double-doubles, Wilson was named. a unanimous choice by the league coaches for the all-freshman squad.
“Jalen had a terrific freshman year and played a critical role in our success,” Self said. “We knew as the season progressed there would be interest in exploring the NBA process. I fully support his decision and know that he will handle this experience properly. Like Ochai [Agbaji], Jalen will keep his remaining eligibility so he has the option to return based on what he learns throughout this process. This will be great for him to learn what people say about him and ways in which he can improve.”
Per NCAA rules, student-athletes can participate in the NBA draft process if withdrawn by Monday, July 19.
“I am excited for the opportunity to learn, workout, and receive valuable feedback on my game that will allow me to make a solid decision on whether to remain in the draft, or return to the University of Kansas for my sophomore year,” Wilson said. “I am ready to get to work and have put all things in God’s hands!”
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