STILLWATER – So, you’re telling me there’s a chance? When asked if this was his final game in an Oklahoma State uniform, Cade Cunningham left the door cracked opened.
“I don’t know.”
Could we possibly see the Big 12 Player of the Year lace ‘em up one more season in the orange and black? It would certainly ease the sting of the 80-70 second-round loss to Oregon State in the NCAA tournament.
I love the thought of it, but let’s be real, there’s life-changing money involved with being the No. 1 overall pick in the NBA Draft and there’s a 99% chance Cade’s headed to the NBA.
The No. 1 overall high school prospect in the 2020 class committed to Oklahoma State not once, but twice and helped lead the Pokes to the second round of the NCAA tournament. Along the way, he picked up multiple All-America honors, with more on the way, the Big 12 Freshman and Player of the Year honors, as well as All-Big 12 Tournament team.
So, was it worth it for the freshman phenom?
“Definitely,” said Cunningham. “I think it was more than worth it. Like I said, I was around the right people and I feel like I’ve grown so much in my game. My teammates uplifted me, my coaches uplifted me, I feel like I became a way better player than I was when I came into this and I feel like as a person I’ve grown a lot. I’ve matured a lot and I just can’t thank them enough.”
There’s certainly no rush for Cunningham in making the NBA decision. As he’s done all season long, Cunningham gave an incredibly mature response on how he plans on making this decision.
“With a level head, just like I’ve done everything,” said Cunningham. “I’ve been blessed to make decision and I feel like they’ve turned out well for me. Going to Montverde was a great decision for me, coming here was a great decision for me, staying here [this year] was another great decision for me. So, I have nothing by faith in the people around me, my family and knowing that we’re going to weigh everything out the right way and make the right decision.”
It’s been a real pleasure to watch Cade work game in and game out this season. He’s helped elevate Cowboy basketball to a national level by knocking off multiple top-10 teams down the stretch, including No. 2 Baylor in the Big 12 semifinal game. With what’s likely a 99% chance he’s headed to the NBA, there’s no question he’s enjoyed his time in Stillwater.
“It’s been special…I’m going to miss it for sure.”
