Kofi Cockburn To Make Announcement On Basketball Future This Friday

When Illinois was bounced by Loyola-Chicago in the Sweet 16 this year, star center Kofi Cockburn initially declared for the NBA Draft.

Even when Kofi was asked about if he was not drafted, he remained focused on the draft process. And also maintained his belief that he would not play college basketball again.

But after the new NCAA NIL rule, which allows players to now profit off their name, image, and likeness, Kofi Cockburn seems to have changed his mind. After withdrawing from the NBA Draft, it looks like Cockburn will either return to Illinois, or transfer to Kentucky for next season.

Illinois Center Kofi Cockburn Withdraws From NBA Draft, May Have Plans To Transferhttps://t.co/eYvMnb4fPR

— SideAction (@SideActionHQ) July 6, 2021

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While Illinois coach Brad Underwood has been working behind the scenes to try to get Kofi Cockburn back to Champaign, the big man is now shedding some light on his future.

Kofi Cockburn took to social media to reveal that he was going to announce his plans for next season this Friday.

Announcement coming this Friday 07/16/21 🙏🏾

— King Kofi (@kxng_alpha) July 13, 2021

Kofi Cockburn’s decision likely comes down to a few different things. But money is at the top of the list.

While finishing the job at Illinois could prove to be worthwhile for Kofi, he also might think that he can make more money off of endorsements if he goes to Kentucky.

Another wrinkle in the Cockburn situation is Orlando Antigua, the former Illinois assistant who moved to John Calipari’s bench this offseason. It is believed that Cockburn and Antigua have developed a strong relationship ever since the recruiting process took place, and that the coach could be an x-factor in Cockburn’s decision.

Right now, it’s anyone’s best guess if Kofi Cockburn will be with Kentucky or Illinois next season. But we’re about to fins out soon enough.

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