Tar Heels’ Joel Berry II reverses course, withdraws from NBA Draft

North Carolina Tarheels guard Joel Berry II has pulled out of the 2017 NBA Draft and will return to school.

Basketball fans in Chapel Hill were treated to some good news on Tuesday. After testing the NBA Draft waters, guard Joel Berry II has elected to return to the University of North Carolina for his senior season.

At 14.7 points per contest, Berry was the second leading scorer behind Justin Jackson on UNC’s 2017 NCAA championship team. He was named the Most Outstanding Player of the Final Four and raked in Second Team All-ACC honors.

Berry cited a desire to improve his game on the collegiate level, as well as complete his degree, before pursuing his professional aspirations.

"“After speaking to my family I have decided to withdraw from the 2017 Draft and will return to Carolina next season. I know I can continue to improve my game and be better prepared for the NBA after another year playing against the best college competition in the country. There’s no reason to rush leaving school. I love being a Tar Heel and love playing for Carolina and Coach Williams.“My family and I have enjoyed every part of playing at Carolina. I am proud of what we have accomplished in my first three seasons as a Tar Heel and am excited about our team next year, the chance to continue to improve in all areas of the game and the opportunity to complete my education and earn my degree.”"

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Berry’s decision appears to be a wise one. While he’s frequently included on Top 100 lists, his name is largely absent from 2017 NBA mock drafts. Jackson is projected by many to be selected in the first round pick June, while fellow Tar Heel Tony Bradley can be found as a potential second-round pick on similar lists.