Simons skipping college, declares for NBA draft

Simons, who is 19 and one year removed from high school, meets the NBA draft
requirements in place and is not required to attend college for one year
because of his enrollment at IMG in Bradenton, Fla.

"After discussing the matter with my parents, I have decided to forgo the
opportunity to play in the NCAA and to instead enter the NBA draft," Simons
told ESPN. "I am very thankful for the support I received at IMG Academy and
from the NCAA coaches who recruited me. I am ready and excited to pursue my
dream of playing in the NBA."

Simons is listed by IMG at 6-foot-3, 165 pounds, and was coveted out of high
school for his shooting range and quickness. Simons committed to play at
Louisville. Rick Pitino was fired last October, and interim head coach Scott
Padgett will not return.

Earlier this month, Simons was named to the Nike Hoop Summit and Jordan
Classic rosters.

Every NBA team scouted Simons this season in anticipation of the move, Simons
said.

ESPN ranks Simons as the No. 19 prospect available for the 2018 NBA Draft.

He will be represented by Drew Rosenhaus Sports Representation, which is a new
agency to the basketball world but a well-known NFL outfit with a deep and
vast pro football clientele.

--Field Level Media