Oklahoma Sooners guard Trae Young exploded on the scene in his freshman season as he led the nation in scoring and assists. Young was named a first-team All-American, Big 12 freshman of the year and he also broke the conference scoring record and tied for the most assists (22) in a single NCAA game. He led the charge for Oklahoma this season as they returned to the NCAA tournament after missing in 2017.
Trae Young told the following to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN.
In the end, I have to make the decision that I believe is best for me, but it doesn’t mean I do so without a heavy heart, without some regret that we won’t get to run it back together next season.
…And now I know there will be doubts again as I prepare for the draft. I don’t pretend to be ready to play in the NBA today, but I am determined to do what I’ve always done: invest in the work to prepare for the league and the incredible challenges it presents. I’m going to start training immediately for the draft, building up strength throughout my body, sharpening my skills and studying the best of the best.
I will enter the June NBA Draft!!
?????? pic.twitter.com/TM0a2VOdkX— Trae Young (@TheTraeYoung) March 20, 2018
Young’s time with Oklahoma hit the highest of highs and also the lowest of lows. He was getting major love all season but also faced massive criticism during Oklahoma’s late collapse as they limped into the postseason. Oklahoma lost their first round NCAA tournament game to Rhode Island in overtime, 83-78. Young had 28 points and eight assists in his last game for the Sooners.
He’s currently projected by many to be a lottery pick, at worst, anywhere from the 8-14 range. Many believe it depends on where Young actually lands that could dictate his success in the league. He’d need to find a great situation where he can flourish as a lead guard for a team in need of some phenomenal shooting.
Young has received comparisons to Stephen Curry, for obvious reasons, but he’ll have to prove a lot to ever reach the same heights Curry has.
