Questions Now Begin for Gilchrist

Will junior forward Augustus Gilchrist leave to the NBA?

The season is over and now the questions begin for the men's basketball team. One of the biggest questions will be Augustus Gilchrist. The junior forward could declare for the NBA draft and has not made an official decision.

When asked after the loss to Cincinnati if he was considering leaving early for the NBA, he simply stated that he was going to work on getting better as a player (not a real clear answer). Gilchrist could be looking at the NBA and Heath will probably help him make a decision in the very near future.

The 6'10" 245-pound forward has been the top performer all season for the Bulls. After leaving the program for a day and returning, he improved his performance once the Bulls hit conference play. He is the only player on the team averaging double figures in points and gave the Bulls a consistent threat in the paint. He plays well in the paint, has a solid move to the hoop, and has a nice jump shot (even will spot up for a 3-point shot once in awhile).

I honestly don't see Gilchrist leaving. Gilchrist has the size that the NBA would like, but there is a lot of his game that needs work. His footwork and moves in the paint are still raw and need work (he doesn't drive consistently to the basket enough). His defense is average, but he does not block out well or use his body to crash the boards either. Last season, I was sad when Dominique Jones left but knew he would leave (despite what many fans thought). This season, it is a bit harder to call, but I see Gilchrist returning for his senior season and hoping for a better year as well.