Walker Kessler makes decision on NBA future

Auburn Tigers center Walker Kessler has officially declared for the 2022 NBA draft, he announced via Twitter on Sunday evening. One of the more dominant players in the SEC this past season, especially on the defensive side, Kessler will now attempt to be a first-round pick this summer.

Kessler released a statement, thanking everybody involved with the Auburn program for the past season. Originally beginning his career with the North Carolina Tar Heels, Kessler will be leaving The Plains as a fan favorite and a member of a historic Tigers basketball squad.

“Coach Pearl recruited me to Auburn University with the idea of being able to accomplish my goals while being close to my family,” Kessler said. “As a team we were able to win the SEC regular season championship and achieve a number one ranking for the first time in school history.

“I want to thank all my family and friends for their constant love and support that has provided me the opportunity to fulfill my dream.

“Auburn University accepted me with open arms and made me feel like I was ‘home.’ Coach Pearl, Coach Steve, Coach Bowman, Coach Flanigan, managers, and the entire basketball staff have helped me grow as a person and as a player. Thank you all!

“I am forever grateful to my teammates, past and present, who I am honored to call my brothers.

“I am excited to announce that I will be entering the 2022 NBA draft. Auburn University will always be my home and I am forever grateful. War Eagle!”

Kessler dominated in the paint this season for the Tigers, averaging 4.6 blocks per game. Not many players were going to go uncontested when driving for a layup when Kessler was in the game. The center was also able to add 11.4 points and 8.1 rebounds, helping Auburn reach heights the program has never hit.

Walker Kessler named Naismith Defensive Player of the Year

Auburn big man Walker Kessler has won the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year after a year in which he averaged 11.4 points, 8.1 rebounds and 4.6 blocks per game, shattering Auburn’s single-season blocks record with 144 total on the season.

Kessler, the first Auburn player to ever take home the national defensive honor, beat out Gonzaga’s Chet Holmgren, Kentucky’s Oscar Tshiebwe, and Duke’s Mark Williams for the annual award.

Last week, Kessler took also home the NABC Defensive Player of the Year honor and was named SEC Defensive Player of the Year shortly after the SEC Tournament.