Cade Cunningham, projected to be the potential No. 1 pick in the 2021 NBA draft, has decided to maintain his commitment to Oklahoma State for the 2020/21 season, he announced today on Twitter (video link).
After Cunningham made his original commitment to Oklahoma State, the school was sanctioned by the NCAA for recruiting violations. A 2021 postseason ban was among the penalties levied upon the Cowboys, leading to speculation that Cunningham may opt for a different program or even take the G League professional path. However, he has decided to play for Oklahoma State after all, despite not getting the chance to participate in next year’s NCAA tournament, barring an appeal that reverses the one-year ban.
According to Jeff Goodman of Stadium (Twitter link), Cunningham never seriously considered joining the G League option, having turned down a $500K+ offer to play for the new Select Team along with Jalen Green, Daishen Nix, and others.
Although Green edged out Cunningham on ESPN’s list of 2020’s top 100 high school recruits, draft guru Jonathan Givony has Cunningham ranked as the top player on his board for the 2021 draft. Givony noted in his most recent ’21 mock that both Cunningham and Green would likely go No. 1 in 2020’s draft if they were eligible.
A 6’7″ point guard, Cunningham was named the Naismith Prep Player of the Year in 2020, leading Montverde Academy in Florida to a 25-0 record with averages of 13.9 PPG, 6.4 APG, and 4.2 RPG.
So what gets Cade Cunningham?– hire his brother as AC a year before he graduates.
It’s another situation like Wisemen/MemphisSt, except this time, Cunningham could have shifted course but did not. Sleaze wins.
Also winning is the HC Boynton trying to lead a rebellion against the NCAA, relying on appeals & lawsuits, rather than advising a recruit to go where he can get the most opportunity. He only said he would inform Cunningham which I’m sure he did in a coachly way.
This is a surprise announcement so I haven’t read more expert opinions.
I would rather he just go to the GL+ in LA.
Interesting to see if the NCAA caves. They’re not popular but they stood firm with Memphis.
Why would Cade reverse course, this situation seems pretty good for him, he gets to play the whole season, just missing the March Madness if his team makes it, but by then he should be focusing on the draft instead of tourneys, I really can’t see any reason to swap college for him, just the perfect situation.
Ever consider the fact that an athlete might be interested in helping his team win the tourney? Besides, he could boost his draft status by showcasing his maturity and leadership in the postseason. College experience can be very valuable if used to one’s advantage
Has anyone seen Basketball Rehab article on Cade Cunningham?
They aren’t sold on him.
Included the link for reference.
link to basketballrehab.com