Kentucky freshman Chris Livingston declares for NBA Draft, maintains eligibility

Kentucky freshman Chris Livingston has entered the 2023 NBA Draft and will maintain his eligibility for a potential return to college.

The 6-foot-6, 220-pound forward out of Akron, OH announced he would be testing the waters on Wednesday, the third Wildcat to do so, joining the likes of Oscar Tshiebwe and Antonio Reeves.

“Basketball means everything to me, and it was a dream of mine to be a part of an incredible basketball program like the University of Kentucky,” the freshman forward announced. “Thank you to Big Blue Nation, my teammates and all the coaches and staff for your support. From middle school, high school, and AAU to now, many people have helped motivate and inspire me to achieve my goals.

“Thank you to my Mom, grandparents, brother and sister for the sacrifices they made along the way. With that being said, I’m declaring for the 2023 NBA Draft. It’s only up from here.”

Livingston averaged 6.3 points and 4.2 rebounds in 22.4 minutes per contest in his debut season with the Wildcats, shooting 42.9% from the field overall, 30.5% from three and 72.2% at the line. He didn’t register 30 minutes in a game for Kentucky until January 31, with fewer than 25 minutes in 19 of 21 games up to that point. From February 7 on, though, he played at least 32 minutes in 11 straight games to close out the season.

And in that 11-game stretch, Livingston hit the double-digit scoring mark five times and registered at least five rebounds on nine occasions. He scored at least three baskets in eight of 11, two double-doubles.

Now, the former five-star prospect is exploring the professional path to decide if now is the time to make the jump.

“I’m excited for Chris and his family to go through this part of the process on his journey,” UK head coach John Calipari said. “Coming in as a physical wing, Chris showed substantial growth as this season went on and proved to be a capable scorer, reliable defender and a relentless rebounder.”

Players can submit paperwork to receive evaluations from the NBA and participate – if invited – in the NBA Draft Combine which is slated to take place May 15-21. The deadline to return to school is May 31.

The process continues with No. 24.