Cedric Coward Stays in NBA Draft After Strong Combine Performance

Pullman, Washington – Cedric Coward announced on Saturday that he will keep his name in the 2025 NBA Draft, forgoing his final season at Washington State. Coward, a 21-year-old senior, saw his season cut short last year due to a partially torn shoulder labrum, which required surgery after just six games.

Before the injury, Coward was averaging 17.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 3.7 assists, and his strong start drew attention from NBA teams. “This is the best opportunity for me to achieve part of my dream, which is making the NBA,” he told ESPN. “Everything is pointing in the right direction right now to follow that.”

After entering the NCAA transfer portal, Coward committed to Duke in late April, but he opted to remain in the draft after a successful showing at the NBA combine. His combine performance included a 7-foot-2¼ wingspan and a vertical leap of 38½ inches, alongside impressive shooting statistics that placed him among the best prospects.

“Even though I am staying in the draft, I picked Duke for a reason,” Coward said. “This was always the main goal. I feel like I am ready.” His rise from a Division III player to a projected first-round draft pick is notable, having started at Willamette University before transferring to Eastern Washington and then Washington State.

Despite playing limited games, Coward’s athleticism and shooting skills shone during the combine. He expressed confidence in his abilities and was already working out for NBA teams. “I see myself as a draft pick,” Coward stated. “I’m looking for a team that wants to take a chance on me.”

The NBA draft is scheduled for June 25-26 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. With significant interest from multiple teams, Coward’s future in the league looks promising.