Iverson Molinar is testing the professional waters but leaving his options open for a return to Starkville.
Molinar announced Friday afternoon he had declared for the 2022 NBA draft but will not sign with an agent, maintaining his collegiate eligibility. The junior from Panama City, Panama, could return to Mississippi State next season.
Molinar said in a statement posted to social media that he has had discussions with new head coach Chris Jans, who was hired Sunday to replace Ben Howland. The Bulldogs’ top scorer this season also thanked Howland and assistant coach Korey McCray for their help.
“I’ve enjoyed my conversations with Coach Jans, and I’m excited about his vision for the program,” Molinar said.
Molinar led Mississippi State with 17.5 points per game, which ranked third in the Southeastern Conference. He scored in double digits in every game and also led the team with 3.5 assists per contest.
He helped the Bulldogs reach the first round of the NIT, which ended in a loss to Virginia on March 16. MSU finished its season with an 18-16 record, and Howland was fired the next day after seven seasons.
“To my teammates: We have competed through blood, sweat and tears,” Molinar wrote. “You’ve pushed me to my limits to become a better player. We became brothers in this journey; I love you all.”
Molinar is a likely second-round selection for the June 23 draft. Earlier this month, Bleacher Report had him as the No. 50 overall selection; Molinar ranked No. 51 on The Athletic’s latest draft board.
Theo DeRosa reports on Mississippi State sports for The Dispatch. Follow him on Twitter at @Theo_DeRosa.
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