“The entire Villanova Basketball and University community support's Saddiq's decision and anticipates following his promising NBA career.”

Article by Dave Nguyen, AKSM Sports

VILLANOVA, PA - After giving this decision a lot of thought, Villanova sophomore forward Saddiq Bey has decided to remain in the 2020 NBA Draft, foregoing his two remaining eligible years at Villanova. According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, Bey has signed with Excel Sports Management, who feature NBA All-Stars Blake Griffin, Kevin Love, C.J. McCollum, and Brandon Ingram, as his professional representation.

"I have thought a lot about my decision to enter the NBA draft," said Bey, "and specifically how that would impact my teammates, coaching staff, and the pursuit of my degree. I am forever grateful to Villanova University."

Bey had a spectacular sophomore season, earning the 2019-20 Julius Erving Award as the nation's best small forward, unanimous selection to the All-Big East first team, and was named Big Five Player of the Year. He averaged 16.1 points while snagging 4.7 boards per game, made 45.1 percent of his shots beyond the arc, helping Villanova to a share of the Big East Regular season title in 2019-20.

"We are all proud of Saddiq," said Villanova head coach Jay Wright. "He has been the consummate Villanova Basketball player and teammate."

Bey is slated as a potential lottery pick. With his 6'8” frame, he is considered one of the most NBA-ready players in this year's draft because of his versatility on both ends of the floor. His ability to shoot the ball from the perimeter, putting the ball on the deck to create his own scoring opportunities, and his stellar defense has attracted the eyes of NBA scouts and executives, seeing his potential as a 3-and-D player at the next level.

"Saddiq is making the right decision-he's ready to be an outstanding player, teammate, and a leader in the NBA" said Wright. "The entire Villanova Basketball and University community support's Saddiq's decision and anticipates following his promising NBA career."

"Over the last two years, I have grown as a player, student, and a man thanks to my coaching staff, teammates, and professors," continued Bey. "Villanova has the greatest fans in the world and I will miss playing in front of them next year. I will always be a Wildcat."

Due to the pandemic, the NBA schedule has been altered. The NBA Draft Lottery is scheduled to be on August 25th and Bey hopes to hear his name called in the Draft on October 15th.

Bey's departure will affect Villanova's potential 2020-21 National Title hopes, but the Wildcats will still be talented next season. Look for Cole Swider, Brandon Slater, Bryan Antione, and Tulane transfer Caleb Daniels to replace Bey's production from last season.