Will UCLA’s Norman Powell Declare For The NBA Draft?

Jan 12, 2014; Los Angeles, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins guard Norman Powell (4) speaks to the media after the game against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Pauley Pavilion. UCLA defeated Arizona State 87-72. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Fielding-USA TODAY Sports

UCLA Basketball is having an exodus of players that might include high-flying athlete Norman Powell. Chris Foster of the Los Angeles Times wrote a piece entitled UCLA Basketball: Adams, Powell Consider Declaring For NBA Draft which reveals a potential fourth UCLA basketball player set to leave for the professional hoops.

In his article, Foster states: “Guards Jordan Adams and Norman Powell have filed paperwork to determine their NBA draft status.”

Just after the 2013-14 season ended, UCLA had become aware of Kyle Anderson and Zach LaVine‘s intent to  leave Westwood for NBA riches. Adams had already revealed that he would “test the waters”, so his mention in the article has already been known. The news of Powell’s interest in the NBA is something that has not been revealed to the UCLA faithful.

Powell was third on the Bruins in scoring with 11.4 and was one of the best defenders on the squad, getting an honorable mention to the Pac-12 All-Defense team.

This past season was a breakout year for the junior guard who was able to play to his abilities in first year head coach Steve Alford‘s system. Powell had always been referenced as the most athletic player on the team and fans were able to observe that with his almost nightly slam dunk performances.

If Norman Powell was to head to the NBA, that would leave UCLA without any of their starters from this past year. David Wear and Travis Wear are also leaving the Bruins due to graduation.

Still, there is a chance Powell and Adams decide to return to the Bruins for any number of reasons, but if they were to leave, the NBA would be picking up some great potential.

Stay with GoJoeBruin.com for more updates on Powell’s decision dn the future of UCLA Basketball.

Mike W.R.

Twitter: @TheBigDisco