Kentucky Center Nerlens Noel to Enter NBA Draft

Still recovering from a torn ACL, Kentucky freshman Nerlens Noel announced Monday he will forgo his sophomore season and instead enter the NBA Draft. Noel is widely considered the No. 1 prospect in this year’s class, and he joins teammate Archie Goodwin as the latest Kentucky players to go one-and-done. Via ESPN.com: “Noel said in a statement released by the university that he’s loved his time with the Wildcats but feels he’s ‘ready to take the next step to the NBA.’ Considered the nation’s top recruit last year, Noel was often compared to Kentucky All-American Anthony Davis, now in the NBA after leading the Wildcats to a national championship as a freshman. ‘I’ve learned so much here at UK and am thankful for Coach (John) Calipari, the staff and my teammates for all of their support,’ Noel said. ‘I especially appreciate the Big Blue Nation and all of the support, prayers and well-wishes I’ve received from them during my rehab and decision-making process. I’ll always be a Wildcat!'”