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IOWA CITY, Iowa — University of Iowa sophomore forward Tyler Cook announced on Friday that he has submitted papers for early entry to the 2018 NBA Draft to test the process and gauge interest.
Cook has not hired an agent, leaving the door open for a possible return to Iowa for the 2018-19 season. Cook has until May 30 to remain in or remove his name from the draft.
“After talking with the coaches and my family, I am going to test the NBA Draft process,” said Cook. “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.”
Cook (6-foot-9, 255 pounds) ranks seventh in the Big Ten in double-doubles (7), eighth in field goal percentage (.566), 11th in scoring average (15.3), and 12th in rebounding (6.8). Cook’s scoring and rebounding averages lead the Hawkeyes as a sophomore. His seven double-doubles also led the team, posting six of the seven double-doubles over the final 15 contests. The St. Louis native tallied 20 points or more a team-best nine times, seven of which came against Big Ten opponents. Cook was recognized as an honorable mention All-Big Ten performer as a sophomore and was voted to the Big Ten All-Freshman Team honoree in 2017.
“Tyler should take advantage of this opportunity and we fully support his decision,” said Iowa 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. Peter Jok went through it in 2016, and found it to be beneficial as it allows athletes to gather information through workouts and interviews from NBA personnel. We will assist Tyler every way we can throughout this process.”
