Kentucky freshman guard Rob Dillingham has announced that he will be entering the 2024 NBA Draft. Dillingham made the announcement on ESPN’s NBA Today, hosted by Malika Andrews, and is projected to be a top-two pick in the upcoming draft, with experts predicting that he will be joining the Washington Wizards. Dillingham spoke about his decision to make the jump from college to the NBA, citing the influence of his family and his coach, John Calipari, in preparing him for this next step. Reflecting on his time at Kentucky, Dillingham noted the ups and downs of the season, the lessons he learned about teamwork, and his admiration for Coach Calipari.
During his freshman season at Kentucky, Dillingham was named second-team All-SEC and Sixth Man of the Year after averaging 15.2 points per game on 47.5% shooting from the field, along with 2.9 rebounds and 3.9 assists in 32 games played. Despite his individual success, Dillingham’s season ended with a disappointing NCAA tournament loss to the Oakland Golden Grizzlies in the first round. However, his performance on the court has caught the attention of NBA scouts, who see potential for his game to translate well to the professional level. Dillingham expressed a desire to make an impact and contribute to a winning team in the NBA, regardless of where he is drafted.
Looking ahead to the NBA Draft, scheduled to take place in New York City on June 26-27, Dillingham’s game has drawn comparisons to Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland. Known for his athletic ability, speed, and ball-handling skills, Dillingham is seen as an electrifying player on the court. While he may not be a pure shooter, he is confident in his abilities and is focused on continually improving and contributing to his future team. Regardless of his draft position, Dillingham is determined to work hard, learn from his teammates and coaches, and ultimately help his team succeed on the court.
Dillingham’s decision to enter the NBA Draft represents a significant milestone in his basketball career, as he transitions from college to the professional level. He credits his family and Coach Calipari for shaping him into the player he is today, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and the collective effort needed to achieve success. As he prepares for the next chapter in his basketball journey, Dillingham remains grounded, focusing on his development as a player and his commitment to helping his future team win games. With his talent, work ethic, and determination, Dillingham is poised to make a positive impact in the NBA and continue to grow as a player.
