LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) – Kentucky men’s basketball freshman guard Keldon Johnson has decided to remain in the 2019 NBA Draft, ending his career at UK.
He posted the news to Instagram on Wednesday:
He had this to say:
“Big Blue Nation, thank you for my time here at Kentucky. I really enjoyed it. I had a wonderful experience. You guys made for the best year I could ever have. I really appreciate you guys taking me in as family and one of your own and supporting me through the thick and thin of the season and supporting this team. I want to thank my coaches: Coach Cal, Coach Barbee, Coach Robic, Coach Joel and Coach KP for just always being there for me and having my back. I want to thank my family and my friends back in South Hill (Virginia) for always being there for me when I need a hand. I want to let everyone know that I’ll be entering and keeping my name in the 2019 NBA Draft. Thank you, BBN.”
Johnson announced last week that he was putting his name on the early-entrants list but left open the option to return to school. He now plans to forgo his remaining collegiate eligibility and commit fully to turning pro.
Under new NCAA rules, players can sign with an NCAA-certified agent, receive feedback and still return to school by May 29 (10 days after the NBA Draft Combine). Johnson will join PJ Washington and Tyler Herro as one of three Wildcats forgoing their eligibility to remain in the June 20 draft.
