Tennessee standout Nate Ament has officially declared for the NBA Draft, announcing his decision on Instagram. After a successful season as a freshman, where he averaged 16.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game, Ament reflects on his time at Tennessee, expressing gratitude to his supporters. He started all 35 games this season, contributing to the Volunteers' 25-12 record and a run to the NCAA Tournament Elite Eight, ultimately falling to national champion Michigan. Ament's departure marks him as a one-and-done player, following a notable career that included being named a McDonald’s All-American and a second-team All-SEC selection.

By the Numbers
  • Avent averaged 16.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game.
  • Tennessee finished the season with a record of 25-12 and made it to the NCAA Tournament Elite Eight.
State of Play
  • Ament’s declaration adds to the trend of top college players entering the NBA Draft after just one year.
  • His performance at Tennessee helped raise the program's profile, showcasing their competitiveness under coach Rick Barnes.
What's Next

As Ament prepares for the NBA Draft, projections will soon emerge regarding his potential selection, impacting team strategies in the upcoming draft. Analysts will watch for updates on his training and performance to gauge his draft stock.

Bottom Line

Nate Ament's decision to enter the NBA Draft signifies a key moment for both the player and the Tennessee basketball program, exemplifying the increasing trend of elite talent pursuing professional opportunities directly from college. His legacy at Tennessee is cemented, but now focuses on his next steps in professional basketball.