James' return makes Texas a top-5 team going into next season.
Most people expected Damion James to stay in the NBA draft. Saturday, a report from CBS Sports said he plans to return to Texas for his senior season.
James averaged 15.4 ppg and 9.2 rpg for the Longhorns last season. At 6’7″, he has spent his career playing power forward and lacks perimeter skills. Texas coach Rick Barnes scrapped plans to play James exclusively at small forward after he struggled early last season.
James’ returns means Texas is absolutely loaded. Gary Johnson and Antonio Pittman return, incoming freshman Avery Bradley and Jordan Hamilton should be stars, and Florida transfer Jai Lucas gives the ‘Horns a much-needed point guard.
I can’t wait for Texas and Kansas to square off.
Osiris Eldridge returning to ISU
Aside from his cool hair, Eldridge wasn’t ready for the NBA. The 6’3″ shooting guard is one of the more exciting and streaky players in College Basketball, but hasn’t demonstrated the ability to distribute the ball well enough to play the point at the next level.
Eldridge averaged 14.0 ppg and 6.2 rpg last season for the Redbirds.
Downey, Archie still Gamecocks
There are always more than a few puzzling names on the NBA’s early entry list. South Carolina teammates Devan Downey and Dominique Archie declared for the draft despite having no chance of being selected.
Archie has some pro potential despite being fairly raw at this point. Downey is 5’9″ and may never play in the League.
USC should be near the top of the SEC next year.
Players have until 6 PM EST Monday to withdraw from the NBA draft. Stay tuned for more updates.
Archie needs to get stronger and play with more consistency next season. Downey is very quick
To The Tin 