Less than a week after their thrilling title win over Wisconsin, and just a few days after learning that center Jahlil Okafor will be leaving Duke after one season, the national champions are set to receive another blow to their 2015-16 season. According to Adam Rowe of 247Sports, Justise Winslow will forego his final three years of college eligibility and declare for this year’s upcoming NBA draft. Based on the report, Winslow is expected to make an official announcement in the next few days.
Report: Justise Winslow to Declare for NBA Draft
Winslow is a 19-year-old, 6’6″ small forward/shooting guard who averaged 12.6 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.1 assists for Duke this season. He elevated his game in the NCAA tournament, averaging 14.3 points and 9.3 rebounds in the team’s six tournament wins. He regularly provided the team with a spark, and was responsible for numerous big shots on the Blue Devils run to the NCAA Championship. Most analysts project Winslow as a top 10 pick in the NBA Draft, with some even saying that he could go in the top 5.
Grayson Allen has announced he will be returning to Duke for his sophomore season. Blue Devils fans are now eagerly awaiting news on whether or not Tyus Jones will be back next year.
All is not lost though, as coach Mike Krzyzewski has once again assembled a top recruiting class for the Blue Devils as they attempt to defend their fifth national title next year.
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – APRIL 06: Justise Winslow #12 of the Duke Blue Devils cuts the net after defeating the Wisconsin Badgers during the NCAA Men’s Final Four Championship at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 6, 2015 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Duke defeated Wisconsin 68-63. (Photo by Lance King/Getty Images)
