Keion Brooks puts name into NBA Draft but leaves path open to return to UK

Keion Brooks had 17 double-figure scoring games last season. (Photo by Vicky Graff)

Keion Brooks Jr. is doing exactly what he should do by entering the NBA Draft.

Okay, I know most Kentucky basketball fans don’t think the junior is ready to make that kind of leap. But putting his name into the draft doesn’t mean he’s going to the draft.

Brooks announced Monday he’s not going to hire an agent. Instead, he wants to receive feedback from the NBA on his game and then he can opt to stay in the draft or return to UK. He could sign with an NCAA-certified agent, receive feedback and still return to school but he’s not going that route.

The deadline to return to school is June 1 and Brooks’ announcement makes me believe if he gets feedback that he is not ready for the NBA he will be back at UK. Many have wondered if Brooks might transfer for his senior season — and he still could if he decides to pull his name out of the draft before June 1 — but this has to make it seem more likely he could be back at UK next year.

He averaged a career-high 10.8 points per game last season and shot 49 percent from the field. He also produced career bests in steals, blocks, assists, 3-pointers, and total rebounds. Brooks, who has played in 80 career games, had 17 double-figure scoring games in the 33 games he started last season.

He was sensational in UK’s win at Kansas when he had 27 points and eight rebounds in the 80-62 victory. It was the most points by a UK player against a top-five Associated Press team since Tyrese Maxey had 27 against No. 3 Louisville on Dec. 28, 2019, and most for a UK player on the road against a top-five team since Derrick Miller had 32 on Dec. 19, 1989 at Kansas in a 150-95 loss.

Here is the statement Brooks released Monday about his decision:

“First off, I would like to thank God for blessing me and putting me in this position. Secondly, I would like to thank all my teammates and coaches along the way for helping me prepare and pushing me to be the best player I can be.

“With that being said, I am looking forward to the next chapter and I will enter my name into the NBA Draft while maintaining my college eligibility. I appreciate all the love and support as I work toward chasing my dream of playing in the NBA.”

It’s no surprise that Kentucky coach John Calipari is on board with Brooks’ decision — and should be.

“The rules in place for these young men to make decisions are there for a reason and Keion is utilizing it exactly the way he should,” Calipari said in a release from UK. “He has made strides during his time here and has continued to improve every year.

“His thoughtfulness and maturity not only as a player, but as a man, will allow him to go through this process and make the best decision for his future. He and his family know they have my full support with whatever they decide.”

The NBA draft combine is May 16-22.