Michigan’s Hunter Dickinson enters NBA Draft but could still return to Wolverines

Michigan basketball’s Hunter Dickinson put his name into the NBA Draft pool, but he’s keeping his eligibility to potentially return to the Wolverines.

Hunter Dickinson is exploring his options by declaring for the NBA Draft.

On Wednesday, Dickinson made it official in a Twitter post detailing his pride in his time with Michigan and his hopes for the future.

“With the support of my family and coaching staff, I am excited to announce I am declaring for the NBA Draft and signing with an NCAA certified agent in order to retain my eligibility,” Dickinson wrote.

“It has always been my dream to play in the NBA, so it is important for me to gather information before making this decision,” he added. “I look forward to getting feedback and am excited for the next steps of this process. I promise to work hard, so I’m ready for whatever the future holds. As always…Go Blue!”

Hunter Dickinson enters NBA Draft but retains eligibility

Dickinson played one season for Michigan after arriving in the class of 2020 as a four-star prospect. He averaged 14.1 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.4 blocks while picking up consensus Second Team All-American honors. The Big Ten named him Freshman of the Year.

It was a memorable season, to be sure. With Dickinson’s help, the Wolverines secured a No. 1 seed and progressed to the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament.

The player wrote about the importance of his debut season in his life.

“Last year was so incredible in every way,” Dickinson said. “Throughout all of the ups-and-downs, we were united and had an unbelievable season — winning the Big Ten and a run to the NCAA Tournament Elite Eight. Those are memories that will last a lifetime.

“I wouldn’t have wanted to spend it anywhere else or with anyone else. I am so appreciative to be a part of such an amazing program. I’m grateful to my coaches, my teammates, the fans and the entire Michigan community.”

It’s not clear which way the wind will blow on his NBA hopes. Stadium’s Jeff Goodman said executives he’s spoken to protect him as a second-round selection.

It makes sense for Dickinson to enter the draft and get a sense of how scouts evaluate him. He could get a better grade than expected. He could also learn what kinds of things he needs to improve if he wants to return to Michigan to raise his draft standing.

If Dickinson returns, Juwan Howard’s Michigan basketball team could be a favorite to return to the Final Four and contend for a national championship.

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