Auburn, AL (EETV)- According to a statement from Auburn's athletic department, sophomore Chuma Okeke has put his name into the list for the 2019 NBA Draft. Okeke was projected as the 41st pick after his solid performances in the postseason.
Okeke is intent on signing an agent which is allowed by the NCAA. He will retain his eligibility which allows him an opportunity to return to Auburn for his junior year.
In his official statement, he said, " I want to thank God, my family, my coaches and teammates and the entire Auburn family for their continued support for the past two seasons. Together we've won championships and made history at Auburn.”
This year he averaged 12.2 points a game as well as shooting 39 percent from three point range. Okeke's most notable game was his 20 point performance against North Carolina in the Sweet 16.
His season was cut short when he tore his ACL against the Tar Heels when he fell awkwardly on a rebound. Despite his injury, several teams are interested in his size and defensive ability.
Okeke joins his teammate Jared Harper as they are the only Auburn players to declare early. The NBA Draft will begin on June 20th at the Barclays Center in New York City.
