UNC freshman point guard Cole Anthony announced Tuesday evening on Instagram that he will not be announcing his decision on whether to enter the 2020 NBA Draft anytime soon, instead offering his support for those affected by the coronavirus pandemic currently sweeping the globe.

“A lot of people have been asking me if I am going to declare for the NBA draft,” Anthony wrote on the post. “Anyone who knows me understands that playing in the NBA has been a lifelong dream of mine, but given the pain that America and the world are experiencing at this time, I am going to refrain from making any announcements around that topic.”

Anthony came to UNC as the MVP of the 2019 McDonald’s All-American Game, and was widely regarded as one of the nation’s top recruits–the type of player typically expected to be a “one-and-done” who plays one year in college before immediately declaring for the draft.

A torn meniscus cost him 11 games during the middle of UNC’s season in 2019-20, but Anthony still earned Third Team All-ACC honors after averaging 18.5 points, 5.7 rebounds and 4.0 assists per game.

Anthony grew up in New York City, which has turned into the epicenter of the coronavirus within the United States in recent days.

“I believe the platform I have been blessed to create because of the game I love so much should be used for a higher purpose in this moment,” Anthony said in his post. “That does not mean I will stop being a kid and enjoying social media.

“But living in New York City, the coronavirus hits hard,” he added. “My family and I know many people directly affected by the coronavirus–many hospitalized, a few in critical condition and one person who has died. New York City is experiencing the highest number of coronavirus cases in the United States. So, my biggest concern right now is trying to figure out how I can help during this crisis. We are all in this together. Stay safe!”

 

 

 

Photo via Todd Melet

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