Washington State senior Cedric Coward is reportedly remaining in the 2025 NBA draft and forgoing his remaining year of eligibility, according to Jonathan Givony of ESPN.
Coward averaged 17.7 points, seven rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.7 blocks on 40% shooting from 3-point range (12-of-30) with the Cougars this past season. He made just six appearances before sustaining a season-ending shoulder injury in November.
The 6-foot-6 forward entered the transfer portal following the season while also declaring for the draft. He eventually committed to play at Duke if he were to return to school next season, but he will now turn pro and advance to the NBA.
Coward likely solidified his standing as a first-round pick with a strong predraft process. He measured in with an absurd 7-foot, 2 1/4-inch wingspan and registered a 38 1/2-inch max vertical jump at the combine last week, while also shooting 64.5% in the 3-point shooting drills.
The 21-year-old is highly touted for his ability to score at all three levels and defend multiple positions. He still has plenty of room to grow and projects to be able to fit in with several teams, making him a coveted prospect among organizations in the back half of the first round.
Coward, who began playing at Division III Willamette University, has had a monumental rise up draft boards and is on the verge of hearing his name called on June 25. He projects to be able to develop into a contributor at the next level and should be a player to watch this draft cycle.