E.J. Montgomery has become the latest Kentucky basketball player to leave the program, using social media Wednesday to announce he is declaring for the NBA Draft.
The 6-foot-10 sophomore started 25 of his 28 games during the season, averaging 6.1 points and 5.4 rebounds per game.
Here is part of Montgomery’s statement on social media:
“What an incredible honor it has been to play for not only one of the best schools in the country, but also the best fans,” Montgomery said. “When I decided to come to Kentucky, it was a dream of mine to win a national championship. I know my brothers and I were ready to go to war for our coaches, the university and Big Blue Nation to bring home the national title this year.
“The circumstances were unfortunate, but I am thankful that I was able to play for a great coach and coaching staff and compete every day in practice and in games to challenge myself to become a better all-around player.
“With that being said, I have decided to take the next step in my career and chase after my ultimate dream and declare for the NBA Draft. I would like to thank Coach Cal and the entire coaching staff for giving me this opportunity and challenging me to become a better player and a better young man. Also, my brothers for the grind and always having my back. I would like to thank my family and friends for all their support through this experience. And lastly, I would like to thank you, BBN!”
Montgomery is the eighth UK player that started a game in the 2019-20 season to not return in 2020-21.
