Kevin Durant ended the speculation that he would return to Texas for at least another year by declaring for the NBA draft. Durant, who won the John R. Wooden award that is given to the NCAA’s best player, will either be drafted first or second depending on whom you talk to. The biggest factor, one would think, is the money that is awaiting him at a professional level, especially a shoe deal that should be worth at least $40 million. NBA GMs on floundering teams can breathe a bit easier knowing his intention now.
UCLA’s Aaron Afflalo also declared for the draft yesterday after guiding the team to consecutive final fours. Afflalo declared last year but withdrew after some poor showings during evaluation camps. While he did win the Pac-10’s player of the year award, he shouldn’t figure into a lottery team’s plans.
Another talented prospect who has committed himself to the draft is Julian Wright of Kansas. Wright is seen as one of the more versatile players in the draft, announced he would be leaving school on Monday. He should factor into the first five picks of the draft, going as high as third in some mock drafts