UConn’s basketball standout, Donovan Clingan, has declared for the 2024 NBA Draft, opting out of his remaining college eligibility. The decision was confirmed via social media. Standing tall at 7’2″, the sophomore center played a pivotal role in leading the Huskies to consecutive national titles, showcasing an impressive average of 13 points and 7.4 rebounds per game this season.
Clingan’s rise to stardom became evident this season, propelling him to a projected lottery pick status, with Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman pegging him as the No. 6 pick in the latest mock draft. His postseason performance further bolstered his draft stock, with notable averages of 15.3 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 3.2 blocks per game.
💙 #32 Out pic.twitter.com/tpD1stCWe5
— Donovan Clingan (@clingan_donovan) April 12, 2024
While Clingan’s defensive prowess and efficiency around the rim are undeniable, there are concerns about his limited offensive range, primarily sticking to interior plays. Nonetheless, his potential has drawn comparisons to established NBA big men like Jakob Poeltl, Walker Kessler, and Ivica Zubac.
The departure of Clingan and the potential exit of star freshman guard Stephon Castle, also projected as a top-10 pick, leaves UConn with significant gaps to fill in their roster. Clingan’s decision signals a shift for the Huskies, who must now focus on replenishing their talent pool after basking in the glory of consecutive national championships.
