Tue, Oct 10th, 2023 - 12:58pm
April 18, 2023 - 11:01pm | By James McCarty
On Tuesday, North Dakota State men’s basketball star forward Grant Nelson announced that he’s entering the 2023 NBA Draft on Instagram.
In the announcement Nelson added that he would be maintaining his collegiate eligibility. With Nelson still being an underclassman, there would still be an opportunity for him to return to college if he chooses. The NCAA rules state that a basketball player can sign with an agent and enter the NBA Draft with the option of withdrawing and returning to college WITHOUT losing any eligibility.
Nelson thanked his family, coaches, and supporters in his release. Additionally, Bison men’s basketball head coach Dave Richman voiced his support for Nelson on twitter saying, “The goal of our program is and always will be to watch young men grow, mature and pursue their dreams as Bison and beyond.” Richman continued, “We’re thrilled for Grant, as he continues to challenge himself and chase his goal of becoming an NBA player. Love ya, bud!”
This past season (2022-23) he averaged 17.9 points, 9.3 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.7 blocks per game. In three seasons at NDSU, Nelson has played in a total of 86 games while making 56 starts. In those games he averaged 25.9 minutes per game and shot 51 percent overall from the field. Over those three seasons, Nelson has averaged 12.1 points, 6.0 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and 1.3 blocks per game.
The 2023 NBA Draft will take place on Thursday, June 22.
