Patrick Patterson might be back after all

For a week or so following Patrick Patterson’s initial declaration for the NBA Draft, it looked like the UK star would be staying in the Draft. Between the difficult economic times, the likely upcoming NBA lockout, and the perception that Patterson would be a top-20 pick, I, along with many others, thought Patterson was going to decide to leave his name in.

I’ve changed my mind.

First, I heard that Patterson measured at just over 6-7, rather than the 6-8 or 6-9 he’s listed elsewhere.

Then, a Tweet from John Calipari was worded in such a way that made me believe that Calipari anticipates the opportunity to coach him next year:

Patrick Patterson will be unbelievable in this offense. People won’t be able to recogize him. Today, Jodie missed three shots in 45 minutes.

Finally, I have heard independent speculation that Patterson would be withdrawing his name from the Draft shortly, possibly as early as today.

I don’t need to tell you that UK’s front court is going to be the strength of the team next year…with Patterson involved it becomes scary good. Think about it and try to suppress goosebumps: Patterson, DeMarcus Cousins, Daniel Orton, and Matt Pilgrim. All of sudden, Perry Stevenson goes from ill-fitting starter to scrounging for minutes.