:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/63575800/usa_today_12115816.0.jpg)
Michigan guard Charles Matthews officially announced on Wednesday that he is NBA bound.
IT'S OFFICIAL! @1CMatthews will head to @NBADraft
— Michigan Men's Basketball (@umichbball) April 17, 2019
In two 〽️ seasons ⤵️
✔️ 63-15 record
✔️ 13-3 postseason record
✔️✌️ B1G Tournament
✔️✌️ straight Sweet 16s
✔️A Final Four & National Title Game
Not too shabby ...
THANK YOU Charles
WISHING you nothing but success#GoBlue pic.twitter.com/SV9XVnX1bU
Last week, I spoke about my desire to play professional basketball. Reaching that goal has been a driving force as far back as I can remember,” Matthews said in the statement. “Now is the time to pursue that opportunity. Now is my chance. Now I make it official that I will be departing the University of Michigan.”
Matthews went on to talk about the importance of coach John Beilein, and what it meant to be a Wolverine.
“I cannot express what Coach Beilein, the coaching staff, my teammates and everyone involved with the program means to me. I am here and in this position because of all of you. Thank you Michigan basketball!”
Matthews played with Michigan for two seasons after transferring from Kentucky to U-M. He averaged 12.6 points and 5.6 rebounds per game at Michigan. The scoring abilities of Matthews combined with his rebound prowess and all around good defensive skills will earn him a shot at making a team and taking his game to the next level.
The NBA Draft Combine invitee list has not yet been announced, but the event will take place on May 15th through May 19th, and it’s likely Matthews will receive an invite. Matthews is currently No. 69 on ESPN’s Big Board of draft prospects, right behind Jordan Poole at No. 68.
The NBA Draft takes place on June 20th.