Former John Calipari Five-Star Commit Makes Major NBA Draft Decision

With the NBA Draft set for June 25, players are weighing whether to stay in the draft or return for another year of college basketball.

The rise of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) opportunities has added another layer to the decision-making process, making it even harder for many young athletes.

On Tuesday, one of the nation’s top freshmen made a major move by withdrawing from the draft and entering the transfer portal.

As reported by Jonathan Givony of ESPN:

"Boogie Fland is withdrawing from the NBA Draft and will not participate in the remainder of the NBA draft combine, his agent Mike Miller told ESPN."

Fland, a standout at Archbishop Stepinac in White Plains, New York, joined Arkansas as a five-star recruit and quickly became an impact player. Before suffering a hand injury in mid-January, the 6-foot-2 guard from the Bronx was averaging 13.5 points per game.

After the injury, Fland struggled to regain his role and played just nine minutes in Arkansas’s Sweet 16 loss in the NCAA Tournament. Some think Fland’s draft stock may have dipped after his midseason injury and limited playing time, making a return to college a chance to rebuild momentum and boost his long-term prospects.

Arkansas Razorbacks guard Boogie Fland and head coach John Calipari

© Nelson Chenault-Imagn Images

Although he hasn’t made his final decision, it’s unlikely Fland returns to Arkansas. Head coach John Calipari has already been active in the transfer portal, bringing in players to help fill the potential gap left by Fland. Additions like Nick Pringle from South Carolina and Malique Ewin from Florida State should be exciting for Razorback fans in Fayetteville.

There are also rumors that Fland could land in Florida. With Todd Golden and the Gators reportedly interested, the talented guard might just stay in the SEC.