Donovan Clingan, a 7-foot-2 center from UConn, has announced that he will be entering the 2024 NBA Draft after winning two national titles with the Huskies. The highly dominant player is expected to be a lottery pick and is even in contention to go No. 1 overall in the draft. With impressive stats in March Madness, including averaging 15.3 points and 8.3 rebounds, Clingan has solidified his position as a top prospect.
Clingan was a key recruit for UConn head coach Dan Hurley, choosing to stay in-state after leading Bristol Central High School to a state championship. After playing a backup role to Adama Sanogo in his freshman year, Clingan started most games in his sophomore season. In the championship game against Purdue, Clingan scored 11 points and was responsible for guarding 7-foot-4 star Zach Edey, holding him to 37 points and 10 rebounds while allowing his teammates to focus on defending Purdue’s 3-point shooters.
Despite the success Clingan experienced with UConn, he expressed difficulty in leaving his teammates but emphasized that the time is now for him to pursue his dream of playing in the NBA. His talent and performance in the NCAA tournament have drawn attention to his potential as a professional player, further enhancing his draft prospects. The Huskies’ dominance in the tournament, with no game being closer than a 14-point margin of victory, showcased Clingan’s ability to contribute to a successful team.
A highly rated five-star prospect, Clingan’s decision to enter the NBA Draft comes after a successful high school and college career. Known for his size, skill, and defensive abilities, he has earned praise for his versatility on the court. His contribution to UConn’s success in the tournament and throughout the season has solidified his reputation as a top player, leading to speculation about his potential future in the NBA.
In recognition of her outstanding career, Iowa is retiring the number 22 jersey of standout player Caitlin Clark. Clingan’s decision to move into the NBA draft follows in the footsteps of other successful college players transitioning to professional basketball. With his combination of size, skill, and performance on the court, Clingan is positioned as a promising prospect for NBA teams looking to add a talented and versatile center to their roster.
With his announcement to enter the 2024 NBA Draft, Donovan Clingan marks the next step in his basketball career, transitioning from a successful college player to a potential NBA star. The decision to pursue his dream of playing in the NBA highlights his dedication to the sport and his desire to compete at the highest level. As he prepares to enter the draft and embark on a new chapter in his basketball journey, Clingan’s future in the NBA looks bright, with expectations of continued success and growth in the professional basketball world.
