Morgantown, West Virginia – While Miles “Deuce” McBride left open the possibility of returning to West Virginia University next season, he should absolutely move on to play professionally in the NBA.
McBride entered his name in the 2021 NBA Draft and will receive an evaluation, and frankly, it’s hard to imagine what flaws or weaknesses professional scouts and executives will be able to find in his game.
McBride, who averaged 15.8 and 4.9 assists for the Mountaineers last season, is the complete package – he’s polished offensively and defensively, can shoot from the perimeter, has great range, can penetrate and score, can do it all.
In addition, he’s a tremendous winner and just an outstanding young man. He’s everything a team could want and more.
In Bleacher Report’s updated NBA Mock Draft, McBride is projected as the 34th overall pick by the Orlando Magic:
“McBride’s breakout offensive season culminated with a 30-point outburst against Morehead State in the NCAA tournament. Even if teams see him as more of a spark-plug player than lead playmaker, his speed with the ball, dangerous pull-up game and pesky defense should help McBride earn a role.”
NBA Draft Room’s Mock Draft has McBride going to the Sacramento Kings with the 35th overall pick, calling Deuce “a highly athletic lead guard who can really lock up opposing ball handlers and is emerging as an offensive threat. A leader on the court.”
McBride’s social media post read like a good bye. Deuce started the message by saying, “Thank you Mountaineer Nation for welcoming me into your family.” McBride went on to say that playing in the NBA has been his dream since the first time he picked up a basketball. And although he left open the door for a return to West Virginia, he didn’t mention that as a possibility in his statement.
In addition, returning for another year won’t likely help his draft stock any. He’s a fully developed, polished player with very few if any obvious weaknesses. While it’s always tough to see a talent like Miles “Deuce” McBride leave Morgantown, he should follow his dream by remaining in the 2021 NBA Draft.