After a turbulent season for the Kentucky Wildcats, one of their premier players decided it was time to take his talents to the next level. On Saturday, Kentucky guard Brandon Boston Jr. announced that he would be signing with an agent and declaring for the 2021 NBA Draft. Bleacher Reports’ Jonathan Wasserman first reported the news.
This is the first major prospect to decide on the draft. This is because of the disastrous season that Kentucky endured this year. The team finished the season 9-16, good for 8th in the SEC. This is the first season they had finished with under 10 wins since the 1926-27 season when the team wasn’t even apart of the SEC. To say that the season was a disappointment would be an understatement.
Boston averaged 11.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.6 assists through 25 games this season. The Georgia native had an up-and-down season in his freshman year with the Wildcats. He demonstrated top-tier ability with impressive performances against South Carolina (21 points, 6-10 3P) and Georgia (18 points). On the other hand, he was underwhelmed tremendously with his shooting splits. Boston shot 35.5% from the field and 30% from three on the year.
Despite his porous numbers, Boston maintains his first-round projection based on his potential and physical tools. At 6’7, Boston is versatile defenisvely. He has the speed to keep up with smaller guards but the length to defend wings on the perimeter. While the numbers from his year at Kentucky may not show it, Boston is a threat offensively.
He uses his athleticism to finish strong at the basket and can create his own shot from time to time. The key for Boston will be developing these skills to become a more efficient and consistent player at the next level.
