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Dear Mitch, Can I Play Next Year? Jodie

So what is the purpose of declaring for the NBA draft IF there is a loop hole that allows you to come back? I mean really what was the big deal about Monday and Jodie saying he isn't pulling out of the draft? WKYT reported today that Jodie Meeks CAN return to UK next year with a few provisions. He CAN'T be drafted, sign with an agent, sign any endorsement deals and he has to write Mitch Barnhart a letter asking to come back to UK.

It is in Rule 12.2.4.2.1 which states:

"An enrolled student-athlete in basketball may enter a professional league's draft one time during his or her collegiate career without jeopardizing eligibility in that sport, provided the student-athlete is not drafted by an team in that league and the student-athlete declares his or her intention to resume intercollegiate participation within 30 days after the draft. The student-athlete's declaration of intent shall be in writing to the institution's director of athletics."

Remember Randolph Morris? (Yeah I tired to forget how he wasted his size and talent too) but seriously don't forget he came back after going into the draft. He did have to sit out 14 games but if Meeks follows the rules above he wouldn't have to sit out any games. Why Morris sit and not Joide? While Morris didn't sign with an agent he DID get some help from one and THAT is why he had to sit out. So again I ask, what is the point of a deadline if players can come back? Why not, if you are a Junior, go to the NBA camps and see where you are. Stay in the draft and see what happens just don't sign anything or take any money that jeopardizes your amateur status. If you make it great if not go back to school improve and try again next year.

So now I am torn. On one hand I really do want the best for Jodie. I hope he gets to achieve his dream of playing Pro B-ball. Yet at the same time we really need a solid outside shooter...Jodie would fill that void very nicely. So I saw if he is going to go let's hope it's in the first round and if he doesn't go in round 1 let's hope they don't call him at all.