Former WVU F Jalen Bridges Declares for NBA Draft, Thanks Huggins

Former WVU and Baylor forward Jalen Bridges is declaring for the NBA draft, he announced on Monday afternoon. Bridges thanked West Virginia’s former staff, including Bob Huggins.

“First and foremost. I want to thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for blessing me with the ability to play the game I love. I want to thank my family and friends for always being there for me, through it all. I want to thank Coach Drew and the entire coaching staff, my teammates, and all of the Baylor fans for their support throughout my time in Waco. Ialso would like to thank Coach Huggins, his former staff and my teammates at West Virginia.

“I’m very grateful to have had the opportunity to build relationships that l’ll cherish forever and for such an amazing program. It’s truly amazing how this ball can take you places you’ve literally dreamed of and place people in your life to guide and shape you along your journey. After much prayer and consideration, l’m blessed to announce that I have decided to enter my name into the 2024 NBA Draft. I look forward to what the future holds for me. Thank you all for your continued love & support.

“Sic ’em Bears!”

🫶🏽 pic.twitter.com/osFkvIlAGX

— bizzle (@jbizzz11e) April 22, 2024

Bridges attended Fairmont Senior High School, contributing to consecutive West Virginia State Class AA Title appearances. Bridges was a four-star prospect coming out of high school, committing to WVU and staying home. Bridges spent two seasons playing at West Virginia, becoming a full-time starter for a year and a half. Bridges averaged 7.3 points and 4.2 rebounds through 61 games for the Mountaineers.

Bridges entered the transfer portal in March 2022, leaving WVU for Baylor. Bridges averaged 12.2 points and 5.7 rebounds on 47% shooting from the field this past season.