5-star Leonard Miller to forgo college eligibility and turn pro

Five-star Canadian forward Leonard Miller will no longer consider the college route, and will instead pursue the professional option fully, he told On3.

In April, the 6-foot-11 big man announced his three finalists with On3 — Arizona, Kentucky, and the G-League Ignite.

A source told On3 Arizona was the presumed favorite to land Miller if he were to have chosen the college route.

Late last month, Miller also declared for the 2022 NBA draft while maintaining his college eligibility. The 18-year-old five-star prospect was deemed draft eligible due to the fact he’s been one year removed from high school, after completing a postgraduate year at Fort Erie International Academy in Ontario.

Miller has two options moving forward: sign with the G-League Ignite, or remain in the draft in hopes of his hearing his name called. He will have until June 13th to make that decision. In ESPN’s latest Mock Draft, Miller is projected as the 41st overall pick. Either way, Miller will be a professional basketball player next season, and we will not see him suit up for the NCAA.

Statement from Miller

Here is the full statement Miller provided to On3:

My lifelong dream has been to play basketball at the highest level, and I’ve been fortunate to have had a number of amazing people in my life that have helped me pursue that dream.

After getting feedback from going through the NBA Draft process up to this point, I have decided to take the next step in that journey and move forward in the professional process.

I want to sincerely thank every college who recruited me. Your belief in me and encouragement fueled me to put in the work to become an even better player. I am incredibly grateful for your interest and the time you poured into me.

To my family, coaches, friends and everyone back home in Canada, each of you has helped me in different ways to reach this point. I can’t thank you enough, and as I go forward I’ll be doing everything I can to make you proud.