Travis Taylor | Lariat Photo Editor
By Shehan Jeyarajah
Sports Writer
On Tuesday, sophomore center Isaiah Austin officially announced his long-expected decision to forgo his final two years of eligibility at Baylor to enter the 2014 NBA Draft.
The 7-foot-1 sophomore started both years he attended Baylor, and was part of units that reached the Sweet Sixteen of the NCAA Tournament in 2014 and won the National Invitational Tournament Championship in 2013. Despite playing only two seasons for the Bears, Austin leaves Baylor tied for second all-time in total blocks. He leaves with career averages of 12.1 points, 6.9 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per game.
“Our coaching staff really enjoyed working with Isaiah for his two years at Baylor University, and we want to thank him for his tremendous contributions to Baylor basketball,” head coach Scott Drew said. “He’s a tremendous player and a great role model in the community, and we look forward to watching him as he takes the next step to the NBA.”
Early projections have Austin going as a late first round or early second round draft pick. If Austin and senior forward Cory Jefferson are both selected, it will give Baylor six NBA draft picks over the past three seasons.
The 2014 NBA Draft will take place on June 26 and will be broadcast live on ESPN.
