Kansas State basketball coach Bruce Weber will need a team leader next season. Kamau Stokes could do the job but has the NBA on his mind.
On Tuesday, the NBA released a list of the early entry candidates for this year’s draft. The list of 137 college players and some international players included Wildcat Sophomore guard Stokes.
He wasn’t only catching up on studies since the team’s season ended in the NCAA tournament. Stokes did the paperwork necessary to be considered an early entry candidate.
The NBA requires those players who want to be considered for the draft submit a letter by April 23.
"Under NCAA rules, in order to retain college basketball eligibility, underclassmen that have entered the 2017 Draft must withdraw by Wednesday, May 24."
Certainly, Stokes discussed his plans with coach Weber?
Wildcat Senior Wesley Iwundu is listed on several NBA draft boards. On the other hand, Stokes is far from such consideration.
That doesn’t mean he shouldn’t find out what opportunity might be available and learn everything possible about his chance of playing at the next level.
I don’t think Stokes is ready for the NBA. However, I am always amazed at the players who succeed and those who should and don’t. It is difficult to determine and understand. In the right situation, Stokes could excel.
He had an outstanding comeback season following a knee injury during the 2015-16 season. You may recall the impact that injury had on the Wildcat’s season.
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He along with seniors Iwundu and D.J. Johnson helped lead this season’s team to 21 wins and a trip to the NCAA tournament.
His 22 points, including 5 of 8 three-pointers, in 30 minutes against Wake Forest were critical in Kansas State’s First-four victory.
He started all 35 games for Weber this season and averaged 11 points a game and just over 36 percent shooting from three. Weber and the Wildcats need him back next season.