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UK's Richards to Test Waters and Enter NBA Draft

UK's Richards to Test Waters and Enter NBA Draft
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By UK Athletics
Apr. 22, 2019 | LEXINGTON
By UK Athletics Apr. 22, 2019 | 11:30 AM | LEXINGTON
Kentucky men's basketball sophomore forward Nick Richards submitted his name for the 2019 NBA Draft, he announced Monday. Under new NCAA rules, Richards can sign with an NCAA-certified agent, receive feedback and still return to school.

Richards will have until May 29 (10 days after the NBA Draft Combine) to make a final decision as to whether he wishes to remain in the draft or return to Kentucky.

"When I committed to Kentucky, my goals were to achieve two things: I wanted to help bring a championship back to the Big Blue Nation and I wanted to live out a lifelong dream of playing in the NBA," Richards said. "That's part of what makes Kentucky so special. You have the chance to play on the biggest stage in college basketball and Coach Cal, KP and the staff prepare you for the next level.

 "After discussing my options with Coach Cal and my family, I decided to enter my name into the NBA Draft. Using the rules in place, I want to explore every option and see where my game is. I know that my game has grown so much in my time at Kentucky and I want to thank Coach Cal and my teammates for pushing me to be my best every day.

 "I want to keep all doors open. If this isn't my time, I'll be more than excited to suit up in front of the best fans in the country again next season and chase our goal of winning a championship. This is a learning process for me and I appreciate the Big Blue Nation for being both understanding and supportive of my decision. I can't thank you enough for welcoming me into your family from day one."

Richards is the fifth underclassman from the 2018-19 Wildcats to declare for the 2019 NBA Draft, which will be held June 20 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. Sophomore forward PJ Washington and freshman guards Tyler Herro and Keldon Johnson have all announced they will remain in the draft, ending their collegiate eligibility. Like Richards, freshman forward EJ Montgomery is testing the waters and has declared for the draft but is keeping his options open to possibly return to UK.

Richards submitted necessary paperwork to the NBA last week but has not yet determined his final status. As in years past, players can submit paperwork to receive evaluations from the NBA and participate – if invited – in the NBA Draft Combine. At this time, Richards plans to utilize the current rules in place.

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