Joel Embiid May Not Declare for 2014 NBA Draft

by Bill DiFilippo / @bflip33

It is widely believed that if freshman Kansas center Joel Embiid were to declare for the 2014 NBA Draft, he would almost certainly be a top-5 selection with the potential of being selected #1 overall.

However, according to an interview Embiid did with ESPN’s Jeff Goodman, the Cameroonian native is “strongly considering” returning to Lawrence for his sophomore year.

Via The Kansas City Star:

“Physically, mentally, if I feel like I’m ready, I’m going to leave,” Embiid said. “But right now, I’m not really thinking about that. So I’m just thinking about winning the Big 12 and winning the national championship.”

KU coach Bill Self says the notion that Embiid will consider both options is not new.

“There’s always a chance that somebody could come back,” Self said. “But I will say this, Joel will not make his decision based on the money.”

Embiid has been a revelation for the Jayhawks this season, averaging 10.9 points, 7.6 rebounds and 2.6 blocks in 22.7 minutes per game. According to ESPN’s Chad Ford, Embiid is the No. 1 prospect in the 2014 Draft.