Davis set the MSU freshman single-season block record, recording 64 blocks in his first season at MSU, and also set a freshman single-game record at MSU when he recorded six blocks at Northwestern on Jan. 28. 

“I asked Coach (Tom) Izzo and Coach (Keith) Guy do research for me," Davis said in a press release. "The information that came back made me decide to enter the draft. It was a tough decision, but after talking to my family and coaches, I felt it was the right decision and one I’m fully committed to. I’d like to thank all of the people that helped me this year – my teammates and coaches, the academic support staff and especially the fans that welcomed me with open arms. Because of their help, I’m in position to fulfill a lifelong dream of playing in the NBA. This has been a great year for me at Michigan State – including a memorable trip to Italy, being a part of the best start in school history and winning the Big Ten Tournament. I will always be a Spartan and look forward to coming back to campus like so many other pros do now.”

Davis has been projected by many as a mid-to-late lottery pick (top-14 pick) in the upcoming NBA Draft. Davis became one of just three freshman to record a double-double in their MSU basketball debut, when he recorded 13 points and 11 rebounds in MSU's opening win over Florida Atlantic. 

MSU head coach Tom Izzo said he wants what is best for Davis and that he hopes more than just get drafted into the NBA, Davis is able to stick in the league for many years. Izzo said he feels Davis has a lot of untapped potential still both on and off the court.

“As a coach, my job is to help my players grow both on and off the basketball court," Izzo said in a press release. "Over the last year, Deyonta has improved as a player, as he is just starting to tap his true potential. Off the court, there is no question that he has grown by leaps and bounds as he matures as a young man. I’ve been fortunate to live my dreams, but the real thrill as a coach is getting to see my players live their dreams. I look forward to following Deyonta’s development and career in the NBA for years to come.”

With the loss of Davis, MSU will need senior forward Gavin Schilling to make large strides into his final year as he leads the MSU front court. Davis' decision could also mean MSU could play with a smaller lineup of 6-foot-6 freshman Miles Bridges playing the power forward position. 

Davis' high school basketball coach from Muskegon, Keith Guy said he is amazed by Davis' growth in just one year at MSU and said he thinks Davis has ultimately made the best decision for him as a player.

“Deyonta has an opportunity to pursue a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," Guy said in a press release. "(Davis) has approached this decision with a level of maturity and reason that exhibits the growth you would hope for in a man. His time here at Muskegon High and at Michigan State University has seen him continue to develop both on and off the court into a steady and focused young man. Coach Izzo’s program was the perfect fit for Deyonta. They went above and beyond as a staff and as mentors in helping Deyonta to realize the potential that the NBA clearly recognizes in Deyonta."