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Here’s some good news. Marcus Carr has decided to withdraw from the NBA Draft and come back for his (likely) final season as a Minnesota Golden Gopher.
#Gophers point guard Marcus Carr is withdrawing from the NBA Draft and returning to college to play for the #Gophers, Carr told the Star Tribune. Story up shortly @StribSports @GopherMBB
— Marcus R. Fuller (@Marcus_R_Fuller) July 31, 2020
Let's go to work. #Gophers pic.twitter.com/WRsP0Y2azd
— Minnesota Men's Basketball (@GopherMBB) July 31, 2020
“After careful consideration and discussion with my family, I have decided to remove my name from consideration for the NBA Draft,” Carr explained. “I am excited to rejoin my Gopher teammates soon and get ready for the upcoming season. I am thankful for all those who provided feedback and guidance during this process. Additionally, I am dedicating this season to my brother Duane Notice.”
The return is key to the Gophers’ hopes this winter, as losing Carr and Daniel Oturu would have likely been too much to overcome for Richard Pitino’s team.
“We are excited that Marcus is returning after testing the waters,” said head coach Richard Pitino. “I believe he is one of the best point guards in the country and is ready to have a terrific junior year. His leadership is vital in our program and in our locker room.”
Of course, what impact the move will have on the upcoming season remains in limbo because of COVID. Regardless, if college basketball happens, the Gophers are in a much better position than they were before today.