USC Guard Isaiah Collier Declares for NBA Draft After One Season

Author:

Alexie Marone

|Published: April 12th, 2024

Isaiah Collier has decided to leave the University of Southern California after completing just one season to pursue opportunities in the NBA draft.

The Trojans' official website announced his departure through a post.

The message conveyed well wishes for his future endeavours: "Congratulations, Zay, and good luck in your next chapter!"

During his freshman year, Collier showcased impressive skills, averaging 16.3 points and 2.9 rebounds per game, making him the second-highest scorer on the team.

Despite facing challenges due to a right-hand surgery in January that caused him to miss six games, Collier maintained a solid performance, shooting 49% from the field and 67% from the free-throw line.

Collier's outstanding performance earned him recognition, as he was named to the All-Pac-12 Freshman Team and received an honorable mention on the All-Pac-12 Team.

Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, the 6-foot-5 guard attended Wheeler High School and arrived at USC as the top-ranked recruit in the nation.

Collier's decision to enter the NBA draft adds to a series of changes within the USC basketball program.

Coach Andy Enfield's recent departure to take the SMU job, fellow freshman Bronny James's declaration for the draft and entering the transfer portal, and junior Kobe Johnson's transfer to crosstown rival UCLA reflect a significant shift in the team's composition.

In light of these developments, USC recently appointed Eric Musselman from Arkansas as the new head coach, with Collier present at his introductory news conference.