Julius Randle and James Young are expected to be the first of what could be as many seven Kentucky Wildcats players to declare for the upcoming NBA draft.
Though none of the players that led John Calipari and the Cats to within a victory of a NCAA championship earlier this month have formally declared as of yet, it’s widely considered only a matter of time before at least Randle and Young announce their rumored intentions, joining a freshman draft pool that could also include the likes of Jabari Parker, Andrew Wiggins, Joel Embiid, Aaron Gordon and Tyler Ennis.
“Julius Randle and James Young are, for sure, gone,” reports ESPN’s Chad Ford. “I would say Willie Cauley-Stein too, but his comments the other day indicated he might not be a sure thing to leave.”
The 6-9, 250 pound Randle is expected to be a lottery pick, while the sweet-shooting Young has been pegged to go somewhere around the middle of the first round. Randle averaged 15 points and 10 rebounds this season, while Young chipped in with 14 points, four rebounds and two assists.
Across UK Nation, the great mystery remains the intentions of the Harrison twins, Aaron and Andrew. Several media outlets have reported all year long the pair has wanted to leave for the NBA, but may now be worried about their draft status and if they are considered bonafide first-round picks.
Among scouts, Andrew Harrison (11 points, four rebounds, three assists) is considered the better prospect, but questions about his quickness, athleticism and ball handling remain. Most scouts consider another year at Kentucky to be in the best interest of both brothers.
Also considering making the jump are sophomore forward Alex Poythress and freshmen center Dakari Johnson. At this point, they two are only considered potential first- rounders.
Kentucky finished the year at 29-11, including winning their first five tournament games before bowing to UConn 60-54 in the title game.
