Kofi Cockburn declares for NBA Draft

Second-team All-American Kofi Cockburn has declared for the NBA Draft.

The sophomore announced his decision on Sunday afternoon via Twitter.

Cockburn played an integral role for the Illini the past two seasons, testing the professional waters each year.

He was the only player in the country to average 15+ points and 9+ rebounds while shooting at least 60% from the floor. He ranked third nationally in double-doubles.

The Jamaican native averaged 17.7 points, 9.5 rebounds and just over one block a game this past season. His career-high came against Minnesota when he posted 33 points on 12-of-15 from the floor and 13 rebounds.

Cockburn could still return next season. He’d be the only frontcourt returnee with significant experience in the system as Giorgi Bezhanishvili announced he was going pro just a few weeks ago.

Brad Underwood did bring in Florida transfer Omar Payne, but neither Brandon Lieb and Jermaine Hamlin have seen more than one or two quality minutes in their time as Illini.