Syracuse guard Joe Girard to enter NBA Draft process, transfer portal
Syracuse guard Joe Girard announced on Friday afternoon he is entering the 2023 NBA Draft process, and will retain his college eligibility. He is also entering the transfer portal to 'keep my options open,' he said in a statement released on social media.
"From the time I was a little kid, I've been committed with a relentless pursuit to play the game of basketball at the highest level," Girard said. "My focus has been and continues to be living out that dream."
Girard led Syracuse in scoring in his senior season, averaging 16.4 ppg to go with 3.0 apg. He shot 40.3 percent from the field, a career high, and 38.1 percent from beyond the arc.
Girard has one year of eligibility left despite playing four seasons because the NCAA offered an extra year of eligibility as a result of the COVID pandemic. The early entry withdrawal deadline for underclassmen that wish to maintain their collegiate eligibility is May 31.
He becomes the third SU player to enter the portal, joining John Bol Ajak and Symir Torrence. Freshman Judah Mintz also announced earlier in the week he will enter the NBA Draft process as well.
It has been an offseason of change, as Jim Boeheim retired after 47 years of coaching SU, and Red Autry was named head coach. Syracuse also received a commitment from Notre Dame transfer guard JJ Starling.
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