Isaiah Stevens declares for NBA Draft: What it means for Colorado State men's basketball

Isaiah Stevens has declared for the 2023 NBA Draft, but also left the door open for a potential return to the Colorado State men’s basketball team.

It’s a move that was expected within the program and similar to the process undertaken by David Roddy a year ago.

Here’s a look at what to know about what’s next and what this move means for Stevens and CSU.

What Isaiah Stevens said

Stevens released a statement Friday on Twitter declaring for the draft.

The key phrase was: “I have decided to enter my name in the 2023 NBA draft while maintaining my eligibility to return to Colorado State for one more year.”

It appears notable that Stevens highlighted returning to CSU specifically, suggesting that if he does return for his final college season, it will be as a Ram and not to transfer elsewhere.

Roddy did the same thing a year ago, saying it would be CSU or the pros for him.

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Stevens recently finished his fourth season at CSU but has a fifth season of eligibility granted by the NCAA due to playing during the 2020-21 COVID-shortened season.

This move allows Stevens to go through draft workouts and interviews with teams and scouts, receiving feedback on his pro prospects and if or where he might be drafted. He can do that while maintaining the option to return to college.

Key dates to know

Here are key dates around the 2023 NBA Draft process:

• Early entry deadline: April 23, 2023

• G-League Elite Camp: May 13-14, 2023 (in Chicago)

• NBA draft combine: May 15-21, 2023 (in Chicago)

• NCAA early entry withdrawal deadline: May 31, 2023

Roddy’s decision went all the way to the deadline, with him officially ending his college career on June 1. He ended up being a first-round selection.

While the decision could go as long for Stevens, there’s a belief he’ll have a clearer picture of his pro prospects earlier in the process. The latest CSU would know is May 31.

What it means for CSU

This was the expected move, so in many ways it’s carry on as planned for CSU.

So far, two players — John Tonje and Jacob Jennissen — are known to have entered the transfer portal, and it’s highly likely they won’t be the last.

If Stevens does not return, the Rams could look to add a veteran ball-handler to go with sophomore-to-be Tavi Jackson and incoming freshman Kyan Evans.

The Rams will also be likely to add a big man via the transfer portal, with other moves possible depending on other departures.

If Stevens does return, the Rams have the leader of their team (on and off the court) in the CSU assist king.

Follow sports reporter Kevin Lytle on Twitter and Instagram @Kevin_Lytle.

This article originally appeared on Fort Collins Coloradoan: Isaiah Stevens declares for NBA draft: What it means for CSU basketball