Paul Mulcahy withdraws from NBA Draft

Blank has reported that Paul Mulcahy has withdrawn from the NBA Draft. A release from the league was published on Thursday afternoon and included the Rutgers point guard. Wednesday wasthe deadline for early entrants to withdraw in order to maintain their college eligibility.

While Mulcahy is expected to return to Rutgers, he has not formally announced his plans for next season. There is no deadline to announce. As a grad transfer, Mulcahy could technically still enter the transfer portal. Until he officially confirms, I would consider his return to Rutgers likely.

Mulcahy averaged 8.3 points, 4.9 assists, 3.6 rebounds and 1.6 steals in 32.4 minutes per game this past season. He shot 41.6% from the floor, 37.0% from three-point range and 72.3% from the foul line. He was 4th in Big Ten play in assists and 6th in assist-to-turnover ratio, along with 7th in steals.

During the 2021-2022 season, Mulcahy became the first Rutgers player to average more than 5+ assists in 27 years since Brian Ellerbe during the 1984-1985 season. Mulcahy averaged career highs as a junior with 9.0 points, 5.3 assists and 4.1 rebounds.

Through four seasons, Mulcahy has played 121 career games and started in 81 contests. His career averages include 6.8 points, 3.8 assists, 3.4 rebounds, and 0.9 steals in 27.5 minutes per game. Mulcahy is shooting 45.1% from the floor, 36.4% from three-point range and 71.6% from the foul line in his career.

He is currently 4th all-time for Rutgers in assists with 457 in his career.

A potential return next season would be another major win for Steve Pikiell. Following the departure of Cam Spencer, Mulcahy is more important than ever.

Earlier on Wednesday, Cliff Omoruyi announced he was returning to Rutgers.  Adding the experienced Mulcahy back into the mix would give RU two core players that have played key roles in rise of the program.

More to come once Mulcahy’s ultimate decision is announced. For my take on his situation, listen or watch here.