ORLANDO, Fla. — UCF forward Taylor Hendricks has decided to forego his last three years of college eligibility and declare for the 2023 NBA Draft, he announced Wednesday on Twitter.
I will be declaring for the 2023 NBA Draft❤️‼️ pic.twitter.com/YcF9lADoOo
— Taylor Hendricks (@tayxhendricks) March 22, 2023
Hendricks, a 6-foot-9, 210-pound true freshman, was UCF’s leading scorer and rebounder, averaging 15.1 points and seven rebounds. He started all 34 games, and his scoring increased as the season progressed.
He had been moving up NBA draft boards as the season went on because of his ability to defend multiple positions and his ability to make 3-pointers, shooting 39.4% from behind the 3-point line with 155 attempted. He also led the team in blocked shots, averaging 1.74 per game.
He is projected to be a top 20 selection in the draft on June 22 and is listed as a likely lottery pick (top 14) in many mock drafts, included being No. 12 in ESPN's latest projections. If he is selected that in range, he would be the highest NBA draft pick in UCF history.
His decision to enter the draft has the support of Knights coach Johnny Dawkins.
So proud of you Tay!
— Johnny Dawkins (@Coach_Dawkins) March 23, 2023
Taylor was a joy to coach and was one of the most coachable players I've ever had the privilege to work with. https://t.co/yMPVKnDHrG
Hendricks reportedly has signed an agreement to be represented by Roc Nation.