Star FSU basketball forward Jamir Watkins declares for the 2024 NBA draft.
Watkins had a strong season for the Seminoles and will try his luck in the NBA.
Florida State forward Jamir Watkins has declared for the 2024 NBA draft, according to his social media profiles. Watkins came to FSU from VCU and had a fantastic junior season, averaging 15.6 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 2.8 APG, and 1.9 SPG.
Here is Watkins’ whole draft announcement: “All credit to the man above; with Him, anything is possible.” I am grateful to my coaching staff at Florida State and VCU for not only believing in me but also turning me into the player I am today.
Thank you to everyone in academics for supporting my development as a student-athlete. I will always love Mrs. Sophie and Mrs. Stacey.
I also want to thank my colleagues, who will always be my brothers. Last but not least, I want to thank my family for always having my back.
After speaking with my family and coaches, I’ve chosen to join the 2024 NBA Draft to follow a lifelong passion. Jamir Watkins.
Watkins was the Seminoles’ most productive player every night, leading the team in points, rebounds, and steals while also tying for first in assists and second in blocked shots. Despite a stellar season on both ends of the court, he received an honorable mention in the All-ACC voting.
There was some hope he’d return for one more season, but this is a weaker draft class, and some teams like his length, athleticism, and potential.
Few expected Watkins to make such a significant improvement this season. He gained a lot of muscle after landing on Florida State’s campus, allowing him to bully his way to the basket against almost anyone.
His 3-point shot improved at the end of the season, but he shot 79.5% from the free throw line, giving clubs confidence that his shot will continue to improve.
Florida State has only three players who could return next season: Chandler Jackson, Taylor Bol Bowen, and Cam’Ron Fletcher (who need a waiver). Jerry Deng has been added through the transfer site, while Daquan Davis, AJ Swinton, and Christian Nitu have been recruited from high school.