Sports
Jaaron Simmons Declares for NBA Draft
By: Mitchell Lyons
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Jaaron Simmons has declared for the NBA draft.
Ohio Men’s Basketball announced through a press release that the redshirt junior guard plans to go through the draft process.The release said Simmons will not hire an agent in order to maintain his NCAA eligibility.
This is nothing new for Ohio Bobcat fans. Senior forward Antonio Campbell did the same thing last year. The rule was created so players could get feedback from NBA teams and know exactly what to work on.
Simmons can attend any workouts scheduled by NBA teams and, if invited, can attend the NBA Combine on May 9-14.
Ohio head coach Saul Phillips is completely behind the decision.
“Jaaron’s decision is a smart one in today’s world of basketball,” the third-year head coach said in the release. “Having a clear idea of where you stand in terms of the draft is a good idea. It worked well for Tony (senior forward Antonio Campbell) last year.
“He got feedback that allowed him to improve dramatically over the summer, and Jaaron’s going to go through the same process. We are extremely supportive of Jaaron’s decision to declare for the draft.”
Simmons shined for the Bobcats this past year, averaging 15.9 points per game and 6.5 assists per game. Simmons was named First-Team All Mid-American Conference and received some votes for MAC Player of the Year.
If Simmons decides to go to the NBA and not return to school, the draft is scheduled for June 22. The deadline to withdraw from the draft is June 12.