John Calipari reacts to EJ Montgomery leaving for NBA Draft

Another day, another Wildcat who is off to the NBA.

This time, it was EJ Montgomery who decided to end his college career and declare for the NBA Draft. Despite a rocky two-year stay in Lexington, there was hope Montgomery would return and become a leader for the 2020-21 Kentucky Wildcats.

Alas, Montgomery is ready to be a pro now and chase his NBA dreams. John Calipari did his best to make the case for Montgomery as a pro prospect in a statement released following the decision.

“At 6-10 with perimeter skills, athleticism and an ability to block shots, someone is going to get a big-time prospect with EJ,” Calipari said in the press release. “His skill set is where the game is going. EJ has always had those tools, but what I’m so proud of is how he progressed, not only through his two seasons here but especially the last month of the season.

“I was excited for EJ going into the postseason because I really thought it was going to be a great opportunity to show all the work he’s put in. He was really playing his best basketball. I’m happy for EJ and his family and will continue to be here to help throughout this process.”

A 6-10 forward out of Fort Pierce (FL), Montgomery appeared in 28 games for the Wildcats during his sophomore campaign and made 25 starts, averaging 6.1 points and 5.4 rebounds per game, both of which were career highs.

Montgomery becomes the fifth UK underclassmen to announce his decision to enter the NBA Draft and forgo his remaining eligibility, joining Nick Richards, Immanuel Quickley, Tyrese Maxey and Ashton Hagans.

Here’s to hoping Montgomery is able to reach his dreams someday and have a career he can look back at and be proud of.