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Justyn Mutts makes decision on his NBA, Virginia Tech future

by:Austin Brezina•04/11/22•

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Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Virginia Tech forward Justyn Mutts has made a decision on his future with Virginia Tech and the NBA ahead of the upcoming 2022 NBA Draft. Mutts has declared for the upcoming draft, but will maintain his college eligibility for next season. This allows Mutts to test the draft waters, as he is projected as a possible second round draft pick according to mock drafts.

Justyn Mutts decides to try NBA

“Dear Hokie Nation, My heart is forever with you,” read Mutts’ official announcement. “My time at Virginia Tech has been one of the best experiences of my life. I’m grateful and blessed to say I am not the same person I was when I came to Blacksburg two years ago. Thanks to my amazing family, friends, coaches and the countless other people that have helped mold me, I can see myself growing into the person I’ve always wanted to be. With that being said, I have decided to declare for the 2022 NBA Draft while still maintaining my college eligibility. I’m excited for what the future has to hold.”

Mutts is coming off his second year with the Hokies after they finished the season by winning the ACC Tournament with a victory over Duke. Unfortunately, their season ended with their second-straight loss in the first round of the NCAA Tournament — leading Mutts to a decision between trying again with Virginia Tech or testing his NBA future.

Last season, Mutts averaged 10.1 points per game, 7.4 rebounds and 3.4 assists with the Hokies. Most NBA draft projections list him as a fringe second round pick, so retaining his college eligibility seems to be a good option for Mutts as his selection this year isn’t a guarantee.

The NCAA changed the rules regarding college eligibility after declaring for the draft in 2018, allowing players to return to college after the draft instead of the previous rule requiring the decision before the draft took place. The new rule allows players who participate in the NBA combine and draft process a chance to return if they notify their athletics director of their intent by 5 p.m. the Monday after the draft.