2021 NBA Draft: Johnny Juzang withdraws, will return to UCLA after leading Bruins to 2021 Final Four

UCLA guard Johnny Juzang, the star of the Bruins’ sudden 2021 Remaining 4 run, introduced Wednesday night time that he plans to return for an additional season with the Bruins. Juzang was ranked No. 49 on the CBS Sports NBA Draft Big Board after averaging 16 factors as a sophomore for UCLA final season after transferring in from Kentucky. Wednesday marked the deadline for gamers to withdraw from the draft and retain their collegiate eligibility.

“Going by means of the draft course of has been an incredible expertise,” Juzang wrote in a social media publish. “I used to be blessed to attach with nice folks, be taught and develop, and get a really feel for all times on the subsequent stage. I wish to thank everyone who has helped me on this course of together with my household, trainers, college, and particularly my dad who helped for numerous hours! Westwood, I can not wait to go to battle! We have got a staff stuffed with warriors and there is no person I might quite combat beside. With Coach Cronin and our workers, I am very excited for this season. Let’s do one thing particular!”

Juzang’s return solidifies that UCLA will likely be among the many preseason favorites to win the nationwide championship after their surge to the Remaining 4 as a No. 11 seed within the 2020-21 season. All the opposite key items from that Bruins are anticipated to return as properly, however none have been extra essential to the run than Juzang.

After enjoying principally as a reserve throughout his freshman season at Kentucky, he entered the beginning lineup for UCLA’s second sport final season and by no means departed. The 6-foot-6 guard averaged 22.8 factors throughout UCLA’s six NCAA Tournament video games to burst onto the radar of NBA scouts.