Cook sneaking a peek at NBA
Hawkeye sophomore submits paperwork for early entry into draft
IOWA CITY — University of Iowa sophomore forward Tyler Cook is taking a sneak peek at his potential future, and he’s doing it obligation-free.
The Hawkeye men’s basketball player has submitted paperwork for early entry into the 2018 NBA Draft, which will be held June 21 in Chicago. Cook will have until June 11 to remain eligible for the draft or withdraw his name from consideration since he has not signed an agent.
Sixty players are selected in the NBA Draft.
“After talking with the coaches and my family, I am going to test the NBA Draft process,” Cook said in a release. “It is my dream to play professionally and not hiring an agent at this time allows me to see where I stand. I am following God’s plan and I am thankful for this opportunity. I appreciate all of the support that I continue to receive from Hawkeye nation.”
The 6-foot-9, 255-pound Cook led the 14-19 Hawkeyes by averaging 15.3 points and 6.8 rebounds per game in 2017-18. The all-Big Ten honorable mention selection added 1.8 assists per game but 2.5 turnovers per contest.
Cook ranked seventh in the Big Ten with seven double-doubles and eighth in field-goal shooting percentage (.566). He scored 20 points or more a team-leading nine times this season.
“Tyler should take advantage of this opportunity and we fully support his decision,” said Hawkeyes head coach Fran McCaffery. “I have spoken with Tyler and his family in depth and believe this is the right decision. This relatively new rule is a positive one for those in pursuit of their professional dreams.
“We will assist Tyler every way we can throughout this process.”
Cook, a St. Louis native, has averaged 14 points while starting in 59 of his 60 games played in two seasons at Iowa. He was a member of the all-Big Ten Freshman Team last year.