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Kentucky Basketball: Isaiah Briscoe declares for NBA draft, plans to hire agent

By Jonathan Coffman

Mar 19, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Isaiah Briscoe (13) brings the ball up court against the Wichita State Shockers during the first half in the second round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Joseph-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 19, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Isaiah Briscoe (13) brings the ball up court against the Wichita State Shockers during the first half in the second round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Joseph-USA TODAY Sports /
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Kentucky Basketball sophomore Isaiah Briscoe could have returned for his Junior season, but ultimately chose to go pro.

On Thursday morning, Kentucky Basketball guard, Isaiah Briscoe announced his intentions to enter the NBA draft and hire an agent, according to CoachCal.com.

The writing was on the wall, but there was reason to believe that Briscoe may opt to return for a Junior season. The Kentucky point guard had difficulty shooting consistently from the field during his tenure, a skill that is hard to overcome as a professional. Fans have expressed their frustration with Briscoe, but nothing seemed certain when considering his next move.

Ultimately, Briscoe decided that this is the time to move to the next level.

Metz Camfield’s story on CoachCal.com provides plenty of insight into Briscoe’s decision, as well as quotes from the point guard.

"“It was a dream to play in front of BBN and an honor to wear K-E-N-T-U-C-K-Y across my chest. I’m ready for the next step and can’t wait to begin the next journey.”"

Coach John Calipari also weighed in, offering his thoughts on how Briscoe’s game will transition in the NBA.

"“Isaiah is a winner,” Calipari told CoachCal.com. “Physically and mentally he’s a pit bull with skills with the ball. We averaged nearly 30 wins a season over the last two years and Isaiah played a big part in all of them. Isaiah defends, he rebounds and he creates shots for others.”"

A Draft Underdog

Briscoe is not currently listed in major mock drafts. While he improved from year one to two, he still has a few glaring deficiencies that stick out to NBA scouts like shooting, size and attitude.

Next: Ranking the top five Kentucky players to wear No. 5

The NBA Draft Combine will be held May 9 – 14 in Chicago. Briscoe will need a strong outing to impress scouts. He likely will not be drafted and should take advantage of any opportunity to show NBA decision makers his improvement.

For more information on Kentucky players entering the draft, stay in touch with us on Wildcat Blue Nation.

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