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Maryland’s Eric Ayala makes final decision on 2021 NBA Draft
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After taking time to evaluate his situation and consider his options, Maryland’s Eric Ayala felt comfortable making a decision on his future. He’s decided to return to College Park.
Jeff Goodman of Stadium reported on Wednesday that Ayala decided to withdraw his name from the 2021 NBA Draft and will return for another season at Maryland. Ayala then released a message of his own confirming his decision.
College basketball players are permitted to test the NBA Draft waters before making a final decision, per NCAA rules.
Maryland’s Eric Ayala told @Stadium he will withdraw from the NBA Draft and return to College Park.
— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanHoops) June 30, 2021
“I’m excited to announce I’ll be returning to Maryland for my senior season,” Ayala said. “I took my time throughout this process and am appreciative of the feedback I received. I can’t wait to get to work with our team and play in front of the best fans in the country once again!”
Ayala, a 6-foot-5 guard, was an All-B1G honorable mention following the 2020-21 season. He appeared in 29 games with 28 starts and averaged a team-best 15.1 points per game. He also posted 4.3 rebounds and 2.2 assists per contest.
Maryland is already considered to be one of the top teams in the B1G and expected to compete for a conference title and perhaps a Final Four appearance. Ayala’s return only improves those chances.
Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB