The top-ranked guard of the 2014 freshman class, Emmanuel Mudiay, says he plans to forgo playing at SMU in favor of pursuing a professional career overseas.
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According Sports Illustrated’s Luke Winn, Mudiay’s decision is strictly a financial one and he was tired of seeing his mother struggle while he had the means to bring money home. Mudiay released a statement through his brother ,Stephane, on his decision to turn pro.
"I was excited about going to SMU and playing college basketball for coach Brown and his staff and preparing for the NBA," Mudiay said "But I was tired of seeing my mom struggle. And after sitting down with coach [Larry] Brown and my family, we decided that the best way for me to provide for my mom was to forgo college and pursue professional basketball opportunities. I am grateful for Prime Prep coach [Ray] Forsett for developing me into the player and man that I am, and I am also grateful for coach Brown's guidance and his support. This has nothing to do with my eligibility in any way.”
Mudiay was considered the top guard prospect going into this season and was expected to be considered for the No. 1 overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft. Mudiay’s commitment in August 2013 was suppose to inspire hope in an SMU team that hasn't made the NCAA Tournament since the 1993, but now that plan is a thing of the past.
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Mudiay is expected to pursue a career in either China or Europe instead of the NBA Development League and is drawing comparisons to Brandon Jennings in 2008. Mudiay is expected to sign a one-year contract overseas and then return to the United States to play in the NBA in 2015.
SMU coach Larry Brown has not commented on the situation, but it is believed that he and Mudiay are very close and he supports the young man’s decision. If this route pays off for Mudiay, the NCAA and NBA could face some serious amateurism issues as college athletes could leave for foreign leagues and be paid instead of staying a year in college.
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