Confirming rumors from yetersday and earlier today, UT spokeman Scott McConnell has confirmed that sophomore Jordan Hamilton and freshman Tristan Thompson and Cory Joseph have each declared for the NBA draft.
Per the release, Hamilton will sign with an agent and not be eligible to return to the Longhorns. Thompson and Joseph will not sign with agents and could return. Underclassmen have until May 8th to withdraw their names and return to school.
Jordan is a likely first round pick who has NBA size and range. However, he is not an elite athlete and will struggle to defend off the bounce.
I'd be shocked if Tristan returns to Texas, as he is projected as a mid-first rounder and maybe a lottery pick. Thompson has an NBA frame that will fill out in time. He is equipped long arms and incredible timing. After he develops a mid-range jumper, Tristan should enjoy the NBA for years to come.
Even with the weakness of this draft class, I expect Cory Joseph to return to school and join Myck Kabongo in the Texas backcourt next season. Joseph would be wise to improve the consistency in his jump shot and his overall strength in the off season.
Regardless, next year's Longhorns will look very different from this year's club.
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