Earlier this week we told you Colorado’s Alec Burks was the last shoe still to drop as far as expected Pac-12 early defections to the NBA. Well, today that large foot hit the ground.
Burks announced at a press conference he will forego his final two years of college eligibility to enter the draft. The 6-foot-6 shooting guard is rated on most draft boards as the number one player at his position.
Burks led the Big 12 in scoring this past season, averaging 20.5 points, 6.5 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game.
The Buffaloes set a school record for wins this season with a 24-14 record that helped them reach the National Invitational Tournament semifinals in New York City. As they transition to a new league, Colorado will have to make do with a new look.
Head coach Tad Boyle said the loss will hurt the team, but Burks is ready to make the jump.
"Obviously, he's proved he can produce in one of the best leagues in the country and at the highest levels of college basketball," Boyle said. "You're talking about a situation where Alec can put himself on a course to take care of himself and his family for years to come. It's hard to begrudge anybody that opportunity, especially someone who has worked as hard as he's worked."
As they transition to a new league, Colorado will have to make do with a new look.
"We're not as good and we're not as experienced, but that doesn't mean we can't have a great year," Boyle said. "I'm optimistic, and I'm proud of Alec.”
Burks’ combination of ideal size and unquestioned talent make him a potential lottery pick.
“The NBA is a dream of mine,” Burks said at his press conference. “I feel like I’ve got to take advantage of it.”
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