Liddell says bye to Ohio St., declares for draft

Ohio State junior forward E.J. Liddell will enter the 2022 NBA draft and forgo his remaining college eligibility by hiring an agent, he announced via Twitter on Friday.

“I will cherish the time and commitment of Buckeye Nation,” Liddell’s statement read in part. “I hope the feeling will be mutual!” With that, I’d like to announce that I will be hiring an agent and entering the 2022 NBA Draft. “

Ohio State’s NCAA tournament run ended with a 71-61 loss in the second round to Villanova. Liddell finished the game with 17 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals and 2 blocks in 35 minutes.

“Choosing to play for Coach [Chris] Holtmann has been the best decision for me not only as a player but as a person. Coach, thank you for believing in my abilities,” Liddell stated. “To our trainers and managers, and to the rest of the coaching staff, I thank you for allowing us to continue the great traditions and culture that make Buckeyes great. Thank you, God, for everything. Without you, none of this would be possible. “

Liddell, the No. 38 prospect in the ESPN 100 for 2019, was named first-team All-Big Ten for a second consecutive season and averaged 19.4 points 7.9 rebounds and 2.5 assists. Liddell was also the Big Ten’s leading blocker with 2.6 per game. The Associated Press named Liddell a third-team All American. He was born in Belleville, Illinois.

“I’m really excited for E.J. Holtmann stated that he is excited for E.J. as he starts his NBA career. “He has grown and developed as a player every year as a Buckeye and that will continue as an NBA player. E.J. E.J. E.J. Buckeye forever. We love you, my man. “

The NBA combine will be held May 16-22 in Chicago, and the draft will be June 23 in Brooklyn, New York.