Kentucky freshman guard Justin Edwards announced this week that he will declare for the 2024 NBA Draft and leave the Wildcats after one season in Lexington.
Edwards averaged 8.8 points, 3.4 rebounds and shot 36.5% from the field in 32 games. He scored in double figures 14 times, including a career-high 28 points, five rebounds, two assists, and two steals in a win over Alabama on February 24.
The 6-foot-8 standout became the first Wildcat player to declare for this year's draft. Teammates Rob Dillingham and Reed Shepard are expected to join him in departing for the NBA, rounding out coach John Calipari's talented roster.
Edwards is projected to be a late first-round pick. He probably didn't perform up to expectations after entering the year as a consensus five-star prospect, but he showed growth throughout the year and had some key performances that led the University of Kentucky to the NCAA Tournament. .
At 20 years old, he has the strength and size to take the leap to the next level. In his final game of the year, he averaged 10.1 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 steal, proving he deserves to be a potential first-round pick.
Edwards will have the opportunity to improve his draft position through the pre-draft process with team interviews and workouts. He also could be invited to next month's G League Elite Camp or Draft Combine in Chicago, Illinois.
The 2024 NBA Draft will be held on June 26th and 27th in New York City.
