EJ Liddell addresses NBA Draft, his future with Ohio State

Following a heartbreaking 71-61 loss to Villanova in the second round of the NCAA Tournament, Ohio State forward EJ Liddell was asked about the possibility of entering the NBA Draft. Liddell responded that he hasn’t had time to seriously weigh his options yet, adding that he is still processing his emotions following the tournament exit.

“Right now I’m just reflecting on enjoying the moments I have with these guys, not even thinking about that,” Liddell said. “Really haven’t thought about that process yet. But this one stings. I’m not going to say I have thought about it, because I really haven’t. This moment right here, I didn’t want it to happen, ever.”

The 6-foot-7 forward is projected as a top 15 pick in the upcoming draft after averaging 19.5 points and eight rebounds per game this past season. EJ Liddell has been on the NBA’s radar for some time, and he declared for the draft last offseason before withdrawing and returning for his junior season.

Liddell finished Sunday’s loss to the Wildcats with 17 points, six rebounds, three assists , three steals and two blocks. The Buckeyes at one point trailed by 15 in the second half, but clawed their way back to within two points with 4:49 to play. However, the Wildcats then went on an 11-3 run of their own to close the game with the win.

Liddell has made massive improvements in his career at Ohio State after averaging just 6.7 points per game as a freshman. Buckeyes coach Chris Holtmann praised the forward for his dedication to the program During a Saturday press conference ahead of OSU’s second round matchup against Villanova. Many Buckeyes fans entered this this under the assumption that it would be Liddell’s last, and that thought was certainly in the back of their minds entering Sunday.

Regardless of whether Liddell returns for one more season or moves on to the NBA, he will be remembered in Columbus for a long time.

“I just think he’s a great example of a kid who’s, one, a great kid, and has literally gotten better in front of our eyes every year. He had a real choice. I think he clearly made the right choice in coming back. But sometimes kids come back and they don’t see great improvement in their game for whatever reason. They just don’t. We could talk about a number of guys. He’s really improved, and for me, it’s a great reward because I know it’s going to benefit him in terms of his professional career and his professional opportunities in the NBA. That’s exciting to see that happen for a kid.”