Amari Williams declares for NBA Draft, retains eligibility

Drexel big man Amari Williams has declared for the 2024 NBA Draft, but will be retaining his college eligibility as he also announced he will enter the transfer portal.

The recently named three-time Defensive Player of the Year, took to social media platforms on Tuesday night to announce his departure from Drexel in the wake of the Dragons’ unexpected bow-out from the Coastal Athletic Association tournament as the second seed.

The former Myerscough big man, who was lauded as the CAA’s Preseason Player of the Year, was a key contributor to Drexel at both ends of the floor, averaging 12.2 points per game, 7.8 rebounds and 1.8 blocks per game and playing a pivotal role in securing the team’s first 20-win season in over a decade.

This move opens up a gateway for Williams to explore his prospects in the NBA while still maintaining a year of college eligibility, where it is assumed he will look to play at a bigger school.

Williams reflected on his time at Drexel with fondness and gratitude.

“Drexel is a wonderful place and the experience I’ve had these past four years was something that i would have never imagined. The lover and support shown means the world to me,” Williams shared.

…”With that being said, I have decided to enter the NBA draft while maintaining my college eligibilty and also entering my name in the transfer portal. I’m excited for what is ahead and will always be a Dragon for life.”

If he is drafted and makes a team’s roster, he will become the third Brit in the last two years to play in the NBA, joining Jeremy Sochan and Tosan Evbuomwan.

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