Report: Kansas' Andrew Wiggins to declare for NBA draft on Monday
Andrew Wiggins (right) averaged 17.1 points and 5.9 rebounds at Kansas. (John Weast/Getty Images Sport)
Kansas freshman wing Andrew Wiggins will reportedly declare for the 2014 NBA draft on Monday.
The school has called a press conference for 3 p.m. ET on Monday. ESPN.com reports that Wiggins, who is a strong candidate to be selected with the top overall pick, will announce that he is leaving Kansas after one season. The decision has been anticipated for months.
“I wish I had more time to stay here and do my thing," Wiggins said earlier this month, according to the Topeka Capital-Journal. “I’m sad … it’s my last time. But I’ve enjoyed my time here. I couldn’t ask for more.”
Wiggins, 19, averaged 17.1 points, 5.9 rebounds and 1.5 assists in 32.8 minutes per game this season, earning Big 12 Freshman of the Year honors. He tallied 19 points and four rebounds in Kansas' first-round victory over Eastern Kentucky and registered four points and four rebounds in a second-round loss to Stanford.
Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix placed Wiggins at No. 1 in his latest big board.
Wiggins began the season in the No. 1 spot -- and finishes it there. He disappears a little too often, has shown a reluctance to consistently attack the rim and his mental toughness has been questioned, but there is too much brilliance to overlook. Wiggins has that rare ability to make difficult plays look effortless, and his on-ball defense is superior to that of virtually anyone at his position. NBA coaches should be able to draw out Wiggins' star talent.
