Indiana sophomore center Kelel Ware has entered the 2024 NBA Draft.
The move, announced via Ware's social media on Tuesday, was widely anticipated as the Oregon State transfer had a great season for the Hoosiers, earning second-team All-Big Ten honors (Media).
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“Thank you, Indiana. It was an honor to wear the Cream and Crimson and have the opportunity to play in front of the best fans in the world,” Ware wrote on Instagram, adding, “I am so grateful for this experience. ” he said. You all welcomed me with open arms and helped me develop into the player I am today.
“I would like to thank the coaching staff for believing in me, seeing my potential, and pushing me to work harder every day on and off the court.”
Ware's departure leaves Mike Woodson and IU with seven open scholarships for the 2024-25 season.
Ware arrived at Indiana looking to revive his draft stock after the McDonald All-American struggled as a freshman in Eugene (6.6 points per game), raising questions about his effort level.
He came out of high school as a potential first-round draft pick in 2023. A year later, there seemed to be no interest in Ware at the NBA level. In one season in Bloomington, Ware completely changed the narrative about his professional future.
“Honestly, before he got here, I heard some questions about his motor,” IU guard Xavier Johnson said. “I think that was something that was well known about him. Coach Woodson and the team kept reminding him about that, and that's why he was averaging as much as he is now. I think that’s why I’m here.”
Ware averaged 16.2 points, 10.8 rebounds and 1.9 blocks per game, shooting 59.5 percent from the field and showing an outside shooting touch (43.6 percent from 3) that attracted scouts due to his 7-foot frame. He was second in the Big Ten in rebounds behind Zach Eady.
“All I can say is that after the first month, he's a completely different player,” Indiana coach Mike Woodson said. “I had to give credit to the coaching staff and the way they work. And we pushed him, and his teammates believe in him, and I believe in him, too. Masu.”
Ware ended the regular season in tears, scoring 26 points or more in three of the four games during Indiana University's winning streak.
He is rated the 29th best prospect in this year's draft, according to Kevin O'Connor of The Ringer.
After a disappointing 93-66 loss to Nebraska in the Big Ten quarterfinals, Ware wasn't sure he had done enough to fully convince scouts he was a first-round talent.
“A little yes, a little no,” Ware said.
IndyStar sports writer Zion Brown contributed to this article.
