Jason Preston, who played the past three seasons for the Ohio Bobcats and helped the team to the Mid-American Conference's automatic bid in the NCAA Tournament and a first-round upset of Virginia, was selected 33rd overall by the Orlando Magic in the second round of the 2021 NBA Draft Thursday night at Brooklyn's Barclays Center.
A short time later, a trade was announced, sending Preston to the Los Angeles Clippers for a future second-round pick and financial considerations.
Preston announced earlier this month that he would remain in the draft and sign with agent Drew Gross of Roc Nation Sports. In April, Preston had declared for the draft but maintained his eligibility, leaving open the possibility that he might return to college.
Preston averaged 15.7 points, 7.3 rebounds and 7.3 assists per game in the 20 games in which he played last season.
Preston contributed 11 points, 13 rebounds and eight assists to help the 13th-seeded Bobcats reach the second round of the 2021 NCAA Tournament with a 62-58 win against No. 4 UVA in West Region action at Indiana University's Assembly Hall.
"It's awesome. It's awesome. Huge credit to, you know, just the bench. I don't know if you could see it on TV, but man, their energy was amazing," Preston said after the win.
"I could not be prouder of this group. ... We've stayed together. This guy right here, Jason Preston - unbelievable player, better person. And championship teams find a way to win," Ohio head coach Jeff Boals said.
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow was among those celebrating the Bobcats' win against UVA. Two days later, Burrow attended Ohio's second-round loss to Creighton at Hinkle Fieldhouse with his dad.
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