CHICAGO — Michigan’s Dusty May, Kentucky’s Mark Pope, Houston’s Kelvin Sampson and numerous other college basketball coaches sidled into the NBA Draft Combine to show support for their next-level hopefuls and mingle with the who’s who, but it’s impossible to hide what’s really top of mind: Are you staying or going?
Florida coach Todd Golden knows this feeling all too well. Walter Clayton Jr. went through the pre-draft process last year at this time, but when he didn’t get a first-round promise, the stud guard returned to Gainesville and helped lead Golden and the Gators to a national championship. Golden and the beaming Florida staffers were in attendance — rocking title gear, of course — as an emblem of what can happen with a little good fortune ahead of the May 28 stay-or-go deadline.
Let’s dive into what each notable name had to say about their needle-moving decisions.
Locks for the NBA
Labaron Philon, Alabama: “All-in on the draft.” Philon noted that he told Alabama coach Nate Oats of his decision and that the door is closed on a return to college basketball.
Egor Demin, BYU: “I had those conversations earlier, I decided what I’m doing at the very last moment. At the moment right now, it’s pretty much locked on the NBA.”
Thomas Sorber, Georgetown: “I’m 100% into the draft.”
Carter Bryant, Arizona: “I’m completely in.”
Drake Powell, North Carolina: “All-in on the draft. Door’s closed.”
Tyrese Proctor, Duke: “I’ve always said I’m 100% in or 100% out. I’m happy with my decision. I loved being at Duke. I wish I could, but I am 100% in. Me and Coach Scheyer had an open relationship. Told him how I feel, what I feel. They were really good with all that.”
They’re on the fence
Adou Thiero, Arkansas: “The door is not completely shut, but we should know more this week. For me, the door is kinda closed but my circle around, they want to hear more great things to finally shut that door.”
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