Branham announced his decision in a post on Instagram on Friday afternoon, saying that “at this time” he is going to chase after his dream and enter his name in the NBA draft.
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Ohio freshman Malaki Branham will join the 2022 NBA Draft.
Branham announced his decision in a post on Instagram on Friday afternoon, saying that “at this time” he is going to chase after his dream and enter his name in the NBA draft.
He told ESPN he will “test the draft” while retaining his right to enter college “intact”.
Last month, Branham was named the “Big Ten Freshman of the Year.” He averaged 13.2 points and 3.6 rebounds per game during the regular season, throwing more than 49% off the floor.
Branham is one of five freshmen and one of two from Power 5 School who have played several games of 30 points this season. In eight games in a row, he scored a double-digit goal.
He is the eighth Ohio player to be honored as the league’s top freshman.
The NBA draft is scheduled for June 23 and will be held in Chicago.
When I was growing up to be a basketball player, my dream has always been to play in the NBA. All the long hours at the gym, the sacrifices I made, as well as my family, and the simple adherence to the plan that God has for me, brought me to this point.
Words cannot convey how grateful I am to have become a Baka. I can’t thank Ohio State University for the opportunity to play a game I love in my hometown. Thanks to Coach Holtman and all the staff for believing in me. They allowed me to become a young man, a basketball player and just the best man of the last season. I can’t thank my coaches who have always been by my side during this journey, and special thanks to Jason Dawson who continues to push and encourage me. Also a big THANK YOU to my family for always being in my corner and making sacrifices to allow me to achieve my dreams.
At this time, I’m going to chase that dream and enter my name on the NBA Draft!
