Former JC player to enter NBA draft

Jamaican basketballer Nick Richards is about to realise his professional dream.

The 22-year-old forward declared for the NBA draft on Tuesday, deciding to forgo his senior season with college powerhouse, the University of Kentucky. While expressing his disappointment at having the college basketball season come to an abrupt end, the Jamaica College alum, in a social-media post, thanked the fans, his teammates, coaches and his family for his development and progress during his three seasons with the Kentucky Wildcats.

"My number-one goal when I came to Kentucky was to compete for a National Championship. I'm sorry we didn't get a chance to play for one this year and bring a trophy home to Kentucky, and although I'd love nothing more than to achieve that goal, it is time for me to pursue my ultimate dream of becoming an NBA player," he said.

As a result of the coronavirus outbreak, the NCAA cancelled the conference championships and subsequently the NCAA men's basketball tournament. Richards is coming off a season in which he was named to the First Team All Southeastern Conference (SEC). He was in the running for SEC player of the year, leading the conference in field goal percentage (64.4%), ranking second in average blocks per game (2.1), and third in average rebounds per game (7.8).

RICHARDS' GROWTH

In a press release, Kentucky head coach John Calipari praised Richards for his growth and commitment, and believes that he is ready to take the ultimate step in his basketball journey.

"What Nick has been able to do with his body, his mind and mastering his skills, it's been incredible and rewarding to watch as a coach. It's been a pleasure to see him grow into the player and the young man he has become, and he's done it all because of his hard work and his dedication," he said. "Of all the kids that we've coached who have elevated and benefited from the culture we've built here, I would say Nick is at the top of the list."

Richards, who is ranked 59th according to ESPN Top 100 draft prospects, is the fourth Kentucky player to have declared for the draft.