NBA Draft Withdrawal Deadline: 7 Men’s Basketball Programs That Won Big

The 2024 NBA draft withdrawal deadline has come and gone, and with it, several key college basketball players have decided to return to their respective programs. This decision has significantly impacted many collegiate programs going into the 2024-25 season. Here’s a look at seven programs that won big.

College basketball is back in full swing

Arizona: Caleb Love Returns

Caleb Love, the Pac-12’s best player this past season, is returning to play for Tommy Lloyd. This is a massive win for the Wildcats, as Love’s presence will undoubtedly elevate the team’s performance.

Kentucky: Mark Pope’s Recruiting Coup

Mark Pope desperately needed players to come back from the draft to play for him. He’ll have players coming into the program like Andrew Carr (Wake Forest), Lamont Butler (San Diego State), Koby Brea (Dayton), Amari Williams (Drexel), and Jaxson Robinson (BYU) — a core group of players that’s going to be playing in Lexington.

Kentucky’s recruiting class is shaping up nicely

Arkansas: John Calipari’s New Squad

The Razorbacks are not only getting Hall of Famer John Calipari as coach, but he’s also getting heavy hitters who withdrew from the NBA draft, such as Trevon Brazile, Jonas Aidoo (Tennessee), and Johnell Davis (Florida Atlantic).

Baylor: Jeremy Roach and Norchad Omier Join the Bears

Former Duke point guard Jeremy Roach and former Miami forward Norchad Omier withdrew from the draft to play under coach Scott Drew.

Kansas: AJ Storr Brings Scoring Prowess

Wisconsin’s leading scorer last season, AJ Storr, is now a Jayhawk and withdrew from the 2024 NBA draft to play for coach Bill Self.

UConn: Alex Karaban Returns for Another National Title Run

Forward Alex Karaban returns after withdrawing from the draft as the Huskies try to win a third consecutive national championship.

Alabama: Mark Sears and Jarin Stevenson Return for Another Final Four Run

Mark Sears and Jarin Stevenson return to play for the Crimson Tide after withdrawing from the 2024 NBA draft as Alabama hopes for another Final Four run.

The 2024-25 season is shaping up to be an exciting one

These seven programs have significantly benefited from the NBA draft withdrawal deadline, and their fans have plenty to be excited about as the new season approaches.