_big_MBB_vs_Iowa_SH_15 — Savannah Hamm, Nebraska Communications

Bryce McGowens to Declare for NBA Draft

The five-star recruit thanks his coaches, teammates, family and Husker Nation

Author:
Kaleb Henry
Updated:
Mar 21, 2022 2:32 PM EDT
Original:
Mar 21, 2022

The freshman phenom Bryce McGowens is officially a one-and-done.

Following his lone season in Lincoln, McGowens took to social media Monday to announce his intentions to enter the 2022 NBA Draft.

"It was the greatest honor of my career thus far to play for the University of Nebraska and suit up as a Cornhusker this past season. Thank you to Coach (Fred) Hoiberg and the entire coaching staff for leading us both on and off the court all season.
To my teammates, who are my brothers, thank you for pushing me to be the best player I can be every day. I'm grateful I got to play alongside my brother Trey and it's something I will always cherish.
Husker Nation - you are the best fan base a player could hope for. Thank you for cheering us on every single game.
To my family and friends, your support is not something I take for granted, and I would not be in this position without each and every one of you.
I am excited for the journey ahead. This past year has put me in the best position possible to chase my lifelong goal of being in the League. It's a dream come true to finally be able to announce that I will be entering the 2022 NBA Draft."

McGowens was named the Associated Press Big Ten Newcomer of the Year and made the third-team and All-Freshman Big Ten squads. In 2021-22, he averaged 16.8 points and 5.2 rebounds per game.

Hoiberg said McGowens told his staff before the announcement what the decision was.

"Since he arrived on campus last summer, Bryce has been diligent in putting in extra work, whether it is in the gym or in the weight room, and you could see it in his continued improvement over the course of the season," Hoiberg said. "Bryce has put a lot of thought into this decision, and we will do everything we can to support him as he prepares for the NBA Draft and the start of his professional career."

McGowens set NU freshman records for highest single-season scoring average (16.8), points (522), free throws made and attempted while ranking in the top 10 in field goals (160, 2nd), rebounds (161, 4th) and 3-pointers (40, 6th).

The 2022 NBA Draft is June 23.