Shaedon Sharpe officially declares for NBA Draft, retains eligibility

Kentucky basketball guard Shaedon Sharpe officially announced his decision to enter the 2022 NBA Draft via social media on Thursday afternoon. The post also revealed that he will retain his college eligibility during the process.

Shaedon Sharpe was originally recruited as part of the 2022 recruiting class, but re-classified to the class of 2021 and enrolled in January before declaring for the NBA Draft. Still, he ended up as the No. 4 recruit in the nation, according to the On3 Consensus, a complete and equally weighted industry-generated average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

The rules require Sharpe to be at least a NBA season removed from high school before declaring for the draft, meaning he’s able to enter the 2022 NBA Draft, even without official college experience. That comes as a result of previous reports that Sharpe completed all graduation requirements before October, along with new reports that he officially graduated in May.

The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported on Thursday morning that Sharpe would “stay in” the NBA Draft field, although he has chosen to retain eligibility at this time.

Shaedon Sharpe releases statement

In addition to his announcement that he will enter the 2022 NCA Draft, Shaedon Sharpe posted a message.

“There last four months at Kentucky have been nothing short of amazing. To have Coach Cal and the rest of the coaching staff, my teammates/brothers, and the Big Blue Nation welcome me into the family has been a true blessing.

“My path to this point wasn’t a straight road of success but my passion for t his game and my dream to play at the highest level has allowed me to overcome challenges and disappointments and has shaped me into who I am today.

“In all honesty, nothing could truly prepare me for the decisions I’ve had to make along the way, but God has placed special people in my life to help guide, support and instill confidence in me to help prepare for these moments. Through discussions with Coach Cal, my parents, my mentor, and long consideration and prayer I’ve decided to enter my name in the NBA Draft while maintaining my college eligibility.

“I’m not sure what my future holds beyond today, but I do know I have to take this next step to officially go through the process to test the waters and receive feedback. I pray you will all understand this is not a decision I’ve taken lightly.

“I’d like to thank God for his many blessings and for always guiding my path. To Coach Cal and the rest of the coaching staff, thank you for your guidance and support both on and off the court. To my family and friends, your unconditional love has seen me through the ups and downs and to BBN I will be eternally grateful for your patience and understanding while I go through this process.”