In the wake of a difficult upset loss to Rutgers, Connecticut freshman Andre Drummond gave Huskies fans something to be happy about. Despite being projected as a lottery pick in next year's NBA Draft by virtually everyone, Drummond told reporters he "knows" he'll be returning for his sophomore season. According to a report from Adam Zagoria on ZagsBlog.com:
As of right now, I know I’ll be back," he told SNY.tv exclusively following No. 8 UConn’s 67-60 loss to Rutgers Saturday. "That’s all I could tell you, I’ll be back.
Even if you’re a Top 5 pick?
"Yeah, I’ll be back," added the 6-foot-11 Drummond, who tallied 10 points, 12 rebounds, seven turnovers, two blocks and one highlight-reel dunk in which he took off eight feet from the basket and flushed it.
Drummond's return would be welcome news to Connecticut as most figured the talented freshman would be a one-and-done player after being one of the highest rated players in the class of 2011. Why would Drummond consider returning when his draft stock will be so high?
"Playing under Jim Calhoun’s wing, it’s going to be great," Drummond said. "I’m trying to be here just to be a great basketball player and get better as a person and he’s the guy to do it."
Drummond could, of course, change his mind after the season ends but for now he says he won’t.
No, I’m just going," he said. "I’m just playing my basketball right now. I’m not really thinking about the future. I’m just trying to win a national championship and a Big East championship."
This will be a story worth paying attention to as the season moves along, especially if Connecticut gets hot or Drummond has a monster second half to the season and his draft stock rises even more.