UCLA junior guard Jaylen Clark declared for the NBA draft on Wednesday despite dealing with an Achilles injury that leaves his playing status for next season in doubt.

Clark, a top-flight defensive player, didn’t indicate whether he will retain his eligibility in case he wishes to return to college.

“I hope to be a light for the kids coming behind me,” Clark said in his announcement on Instagram. “Thank you to UCLA and coach (Mick) Cronin for believing in me. I’d like to announce that I am declaring for the 2023 draft.”

Clark injured his right Achilles in the regular-season finale against Arizona on March 4. He reportedly underwent surgery three days later.

Clark averaged 13.0 points, 6.0 rebounds and 2.6 steals in 30 games (29 starts) this season in his first as a full-time starter. He was named Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year and the National Association of Basketball Coaches’ Defensive Player of the Year.

–Field Level Media