Kevin McCullar surprised Kansas basketball fans last year when he withdrew his name from the NBA draft in order to return to the Jayhawks for one more season. He took a huge leap forward as a super senior, leading the Big 12 with 18.3 points per game and earning All-Big 12 First Team honors. Due to his strong performance, he is expected to be in the late first round of next month's draft.
McCullar was competent during his time with Kansas, but suffered a bone bruise in the final months of the season. The former Texas Tech guard missed eight contests, including the entire Big 12 and NCAA tournaments. Some scouts were skeptical about how he would return after missing the final games of the 2023-24 season. He spoke to reporters about his injury on day three of the NBA Draft Combine yesterday.
“It's been a long journey. Nothing is promised. You just have to keep trying and keep trying…I got a knee scope, and structurally everything But yeah, I'm going through that process now.
– kevin mccullar
Due to a knee ailment, the 6-foot-5 guard did not participate in drills or scrimmages at the combine. However, his measurements have been taken and he is actively discussing it with the team. Even though his injury is questionable, his late first-round or early second-round performance still favors him.
After it was announced that he would be absent from March Madness. Mr. McCullar released an official statement on social media. Regarding his status. He told Jayhawk fans that he wanted to compete and fight with the team, but his body wouldn't allow it despite countless hours of rehabilitation. The end of his college career was so disappointing that some speculated that he did it to protect his draft stock.
While speaking with the team, McCuller compared his game to other NBA talent. He said the comparisons would be Jamie Jaquez Jr. of the Miami Heat and Jaylen Williams of the Oklahoma City Thunder. McCullar is a defensive-minded hustle player who makes hustle plays to help his team win.
Based on his comments, McCuller should be able to be active before next NBA season. Even if he is close to returning to the court, his injury shouldn't cause him to plummet in the draft rankings.