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5 Reasons Why Aaron Gordon Must Declare for 2014 NBA Draft

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5 Reasons Why Aaron Gordon Must Declare for 2014 NBA Draft

5 Reasons Why Aaron Gordon Must Declare for 2014 NBA Draft
Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

When it comes to the NBA Draft, more often than not college players choose to declare as underclassmen, often after just one season. Although only some may be ready to make the leap, Arizona forward Aaron Gordon appears to fit that mold. He has helped his team reach the Elite Eight of the NCAA tournament. He is among the elite talents at the collegiate level, so here are five reasons why he must declare himself eligible for 2014 NBA Draft.

5. Possibility of Injury

Aaron Gordon
Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

5. Possibility of Injury

Aaron Gordon
Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

When a collegiate player who has years of eligibility left on the table and is assessing their options, the chance of injury always plays a big factor -- and rightfully so. Injuries play a huge part in the life of a professional athlete and cannot be completely prevented from happening. Gordon, who will likely go in the top 10 selections in this year's NBA Draft, must truly consider the possibility of getting injured.

4. Chance to Play for a Great Organization

Aaron Gordon
Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

4. Chance to Play for a Great Organization

Aaron Gordon
Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

With Gordon likely get selected somewhere between the fourth through the 10th pick, it leaves open the possibility of getting selected by a top of the line franchise such as the Los Angeles Lakers or the Boston Celtics, both of which will likely select in this range. This is will allow Gordon to start with a team that values winning above all else and use him as a major part in helping rebuild their illustrious organizations.

3. Strike When the Iron is Hot

Aaron Gordon
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

3. Strike When the Iron is Hot

Aaron Gordon
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Gordon has been a standout player for the Wildcats all season long and even more so on the biggest stage as he has helped lead his team deep into the NCAA tournament. So with that said, if he were to come back next season there is no guarantee that he or his team can repeat the success of this season. Gordon has also been arguably one of the best players in the tournament which helped further his case as a top selection in this year's draft.

2. Leaving Money on the Table

Aaron Gordon
Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports

2. Leaving Money on the Table

Aaron Gordon
Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports

This is another one of the major factors for Gordon to consider when he is deciding whether to stay in college or declare for the NBA Draft. It is almost a guarantee that Gordon will be selected in the top 10 and possibly top five overall picks depending on how far Arizona goes in the tournament, so it will be hard to walk away from the millions of dollars that will be on the table.

1. NBA Readiness

Aaron Gordon
Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

1. NBA Readiness

Aaron Gordon
Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

This will be the biggest question for Gordon as he makes his decision on whether or not declare for the draft, but it shouldn't be. He has shown this season he can be a lockdown defender who can legitimately guard every position except center due to his quickness and length. He also has freakish athleticism that will help give him an advantage on both ends of the court. All of this along with his promising upside make him ready for the NBA.