Indiana’s Thomas Bryant and Robert Johnson declare for 2017 NBA Draft, won’t hire agents

Indiana fans could be seeing a decisively different Hoosiers Basketball team next season.

While there was going to be at least some sort of turnover and change with the Hoosiers hiring a new coach in Archie Miller, there’s growing uncertainty over which players will return to the team next season. As reported yesterday, OG Anunoby declared for the NBA Draft, hiring an agent and ending his collegiate career. Also declaring back in March was James Blackmon, who chose to not hire an agent and could return next season.

Now two more of the Hoosiers most prolific players will also test the NBA waters, as Thomas Bryant and Robert Johnson have declared for the 2017 NBA Draft. Both players have chosen not to hire agents, though, keeping the option to return on the table.

As a sophomore Thomas Bryant had a productive season, averaging 12.6 points and 6.6 rebounds per game for the Hoosiers. The center had a productive season while also improving his shot from outside, though his improvement was overlooked somewhat due to the poor season Indiana had down the stretch. According to their most recent mock draft, DraftExpress has the center projected as the 41st pick of the draft.

The uncertainty of being a second round pick could definitely lead Bryant to return for another season, especially if he can work his way back into the first round. Of course if he performs admirably while working out for teams he could crawl back up into the first round, something that would likely see him remain in the draft. It’ll also be curious to see if the decision of his teammates could further effect his decision.

Robert Johnson had his best season as a Hoosiers this past season, averaging 12.8 points, 4.4 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game. While his three point percentage fell off, he still shot 37% from deep and 44.9% from the field, proving to be a capable scorer for the Hoosiers. He brings plenty of athleticism and defensive prowess, though he was inconsistent at times this season.

That being said, Robert Johnson hasn’t been on any mock drafts and would likely go undrafted, meaning there’s a high chance he’ll return to Bloomington for his senior season.

Players that declare for the NBA Draft without an agent have until May 24th to withdraw if they want to retain their eligibility.