Jarrett Culver could be on the brink of Texas Tech history.
The Red Raiders sophomore guard announced Thursday he will forgo his final two years of eligibility and declared for the 2019 NBA Draft during a press conference at The United Spirit Arena.
BREAKING: @jarrettc08 announcing he’s forgoing his last two years at @TexasTechMBB to enter the 2019 NBA Draft
— Ryan King (@Ryan_King_Now) April 18, 2019
Culver is a projected Top 10 pick
Second Red Raider in last two seasons to leave early for NBA (Zhaire Smith, 2018)#WreckEm pic.twitter.com/T1Ly4bnZBQ
"Coach, he coaches me hard every day. He brought the best out of me every day. He made me a better player and a better person," Culver said. "And I want to thank my teammates, this year's and last year's. You've been everything to me. You made me work hard everyday. You hold me accountable. You just mean everything to me. I wouldn't be here without you."
He also shared a video of his decision on Twitter.
I want to thank God and my family for the talent to play this game and always supporting me.
— jarrett culver (@jarrettc08) April 18, 2019
Thank you Texas Tech, my coaches & teammates, and Lubbock. We did things people thought weren't possible because of you. ??
It's time to take the next step, always a Red Raider❗️#4To1 pic.twitter.com/OrH5M64qkQ
If he goes early in the first round, Culver could become the highest draft pick in the Texas Tech basketball program's history. Tony Battie, selected fifth overall in the 1997 draft, was the only Red Raiders player drafted in the first round until Zhaire Smith was taken with the No. 16 pick in 2018.
Culver, 20, averaged 18.5 points, 6.4 rebounds and 3.7 assists last season. During the NCAA Tournament, he led his team with 19 points in an upset win over No. 1 Gonzaga in the Elite Eight before Texas Tech fell to Virginia in overtime of the championship game.
