UK shot-blocker Onyenso to work with agent, go into draft
Kentucky’s Ugonna Onyenso told ESPN that he is working with a representative and stating for the 2024 NBA draft.
“I’m all set to go to the next level,” Onyenso said. “I’m not considering returning to play college basketball. I’m 100% focused on the NBA.”
Onyenso, ranked No. 47 in the ESPN 100 among NBA draft potential customers, balanced 3.6 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2.8 blocks in 19 minutes per game this season. He is among the most physically talented potential customers in this class, standing 7-feet tall with a 7-foot-4 wingspan and sculpted 247 pound frame. He is an impressive athlete with remarkable mobility covering ground fluidly and speed leaving his feet for dunks and blocks.Editor’s Picks
1 Related Onyenso missed the very first six weeks of the season recuperating from ankle surgical treatment in July but established himself as Kentucky’s full-time starter during SEC play, developing himself as the second-best shot-blocker in college basketball with his 15.3 block percentage.
“I desire the NBA to know that I am a huge that can shoot the ball,” Onyenso stated. “I am not simply a defensive player. It’s not just about obstructing shots with me. I did what I required to do to help the team, however I don’t believe anyone saw what I am capable of doing. I am excited to show people that. My ability to shoot, put the ball on the floor and develop for myself. My objective is to improve these next number of months, and be confident in whatever I require to do in this procedure.”
Kentucky has undergone significant upheaval in the previous week, seeing head coach John Calipari depart for SEC competitors Arkansas, and changing him with BYU’s Mark Pope, who won the championship game as a player with the Wildcats in 1996.
Onyenso stated he is not presently preparing to transfer to Arkansas to reunite with Calipari or remain in Lexington to play for Pope.
“Since today, I do not plan on entering the transfer website,” Onyenso stated. “I seem like I am ready for the NBA. I have not met Mark Pope, I only spoke on the phone with him 3 days back. I’m ready to go to the next level and reveal what I can do, but I’m not closing any doors.”
The NBA draft will be kept in New York City on June 26-27. The first round will be performed at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, followed by the second round the next day at ESPN’s studio in lower Manhattan.