Kentucky's Bam Adebayo declares for 2017 NBA Draft, but still could return

Adebayo nearly averaged a double-double in his freshman season at Kentucky

First it was De’Aaon Fox. Then Malik Monk. Now, for the third straight day, a Kentucky freshman has declared for the 2017 NBA Draft.

This time it’s Edrice “Bam” Adebayo, who announced he’s testing the waters but not signing an agent. By not signing with an agent it leaves the door open for a return to Kentucky if he doesn’t get the evaluation he feels is worth leaving school early for.

NBA draft expert Howard Megdal and CBS Sports Insider Gary Parrish both project Adebayo as a late first round pick.  

“This process we went through at Kentucky was a tough but a rewarding one,” Adebayo said in a statement. “It was everything I wanted when I decided to come to Kentucky. It taught me a lot. It taught me how to be a better man on and off the court. I have improved so much since the beginning of the season thanks to the hard work of the coaching staff. They helped me with every step of the process along the way and they never gave up on me.

“I want to thank my teammates. I couldn’t have asked for a better group to grow with. We were all like brothers. I also want to thank the fans for their support and everything they do for us. Their passion is like nothing I’ve ever seen before.

“I feel I’m making the right step in declaring for the draft, but I want to be absolutely sure that I’m making the right decision for me and my mom. I’m looking forward to the process and I appreciate the support of the coaches, my teammates and the fans. No matter what happens, it’s been an unbelievable ride.”

As a freshman, Adebayo averaged 13.0 points and 8.0 rebounds per game and established himself as one of the dominant interior forces in the SEC. He led the team in blocks and double-doubles produced, and also set a Kentucky record for most dunks in a season with 101 -- nine more than Anthony Davis threw down in the 2011-12 season.

“Bam was our hardest worker this season,” Kentucky head coach John Calipari said. “You’re talking about a player who can guard all five positions, has more perimeter skills than people know, and someone with size and a physique that immediately translates to that league. Bam is a great kid with a ton of upside. Should he decide to stay in the draft, he will be an outstanding four man in the NBA. Every organization needs character and Bam is a high-character kid who only cares about winning.”