Dayton Flyers big man DaRon Holmes II submitted paperwork as an early entry candidate for the 2023 NBA Draft.
As a sophomore, Holmes averaged 18.4 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game. The former Atlantic-10 Conference Rookie of the Year made All-A-10, All-A-10 Defense, and A-10 Conference Tournament MVP.
Holmes is officially testing the waters of the 2023 NBA Draft with the option to return to college. The big man will retain his NCAA eligibility, someone with knowledge of the situation told For The Win.
Underclassmen had until April 23 to submit their paperwork. The early entry withdrawal deadline for underclassmen that wish to maintain their collegiate eligibility is May 31.
That means Holmes will have until the end of next month to decide whether he wishes to stay in the draft or return to college.
NBA draft prospects will have a more clear picture of their potential trajectory after the G League Elite Camp (May 13-14) and the NBA Draft Combine (May 15-21) in Chicago.
Holmes could potentially join New York’s Obi Toppin to become just the second player from Dayton to hear his name called in the first round of the NBA Draft since 1979.
Holmes had the second-most dunks (89) of all Division 1 prospects last season, per Bart Torvik. He was also one of the most efficient players in college basketball when rolling to the rim after ball screens and he was one of the leaders in shooting fouls and floor fouls drawn.
