Houston forward Jarace Walker plans to forgo his remaining collegiate eligibility and enter the 2023 NBA draft, the freshman said on Friday after losing in the Sweet 16.
Walker was named the American Athletic Conference Freshman of the Year after averaging 11.2 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.3 blocks and one steal in 36 games. He was voted a unanimous selection to the All-Freshman team.
He is considered a first-round pick this year given his ability as a defender. He was fifth in the country in defensive rating (87.1), sixth in defensive win shares (2.8) and second in the conference in block percentage (6.3).
Houston's Jarace Walker told reporters that he plans to declare for the 2023 NBA Draft.
Walker is projected to be a lottery pick.
— Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) March 25, 2023
Walker emerged as a force on defense for the Cougars and was a key reason they made a deep run in the tournament. He has great instincts and athleticism, and with an improving offensive game, Walker is emerging as one of the best two-way prospects in the draft.
Underclassmen have until April 23 to declare for the draft.
