ESPN analyst Jonathan Givony announced via Twitter that Tulane point guard Jalen Cook will enter the transfer portal. Cook will also enter his name into the 2023 NBA Draft while maintaining his college eligibility, like he did at the end of last season.

The star point guard has been a dominant scorer and playmaker in his two seasons at Tulane, earning two First Team All American Athletic Conference selections. This past season he averaged 19.9 points, 4.9 assists and 1.5 steals per game for Tulane on efficient 45/35/85 shooting splits. 

Cook joins four other Tulane players who entered the transfer portal. Fellow All-AAC player Jaylen Forbes also announced that he will enter his name into the 2023 NBA Draft while maintaining his eligibility. He would likely return to play for the Green Wave if he chooses to pull out of the draft. 

Cook’s departure is a huge blow to the Green Wave, who appeared ready to make a run at the team’s first postseason appearance since 2000. Head Coach Ron Hunter will need to find a way to replace Cook’s offensive firepower to keep Tulane competitive in the AAC next season.