You can’t blame Julian Hammond III for trying.
The 6-foot-2 senior guard entered the transfer portal this week as a graduate transfer, hoping for a fifth year of eligibility. But just days later, a federal judge ruled in favor of the NCAA in a high-profile case involving former athletes seeking an extra season. The decision likely closes the door on Hammond’s hopes of suiting up again at the college level.
Hammond, a four-year starter for the Colorado Buffaloes, appeared in 121 games and never redshirted, or missed a season due to injury, or sat out during the COVID year.
It was a longshot move to continue playing and rack up more NIL deals, but you can’t blame the guy for trying. Hammond averaged 12.5 points, 3.2 assists, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.2 steals per game last season while shooting 37.5% from three-point range. He started all 33 games for a Buffs team that made noise late in the Big 12 tournament.
Even if this is the end, Hammond leaves CU with his head held high. A steady leader and a key piece of Colorado’s backcourt, he gave everything he had to our program. Still disappointed he didn't play both football and basketball like he originally intended.
If he somehow finds a way back on the college floor—somewhere, anywhere—we will be cheering.
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