The Long Wait Is Over: Nate Bittle Ends Speculation, Withdraws from NBA Draft to Return to Oregon for One Final Run with the Ducks in 2025–26

After weeks of suspense, Ducks fans finally have their answer — and it’s a big one. Nate Bittle, Oregon’s starting center and one of the most experienced players on the roster, has officially announced he’s returning to Eugene for his fifth and final season. The long wait is over, and the Ducks’ frontcourt just got a massive boost for the 2025–26 campaign.

Bittle had declared for the NBA Draft earlier this spring while maintaining his college eligibility, keeping fans and coaches alike on edge about his decision. Now, with the deadline to withdraw from the draft having passed, sources have confirmed to The Oregonian/OregonLive that Bittle will suit up one more year for Dana Altman’s squad.

The 7-footer led Oregon last season with 14.2 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game — all career highs — and was instrumental in the Ducks’ run to the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Across 91 career appearances and 62 starts, Bittle has averaged 8.7 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks.

Earlier this month, Bittle was one of 45 players invited to the NBA G League Elite Camp in Chicago. He showed flashes of his two-way talent, recording 11 points and four rebounds in one game and four points and three boards in another. But with the promise of a key leadership role and another chance to elevate his game, Bittle is betting on one more year in college.

With Bittle returning, Oregon now has six scholarship players back from last season, including starting point guard Jackson Shelstad. Forward Kwame Evans Jr. is the only other returning player with starting experience. Transfers TK Simpkins, Sean Stewart, and Devon Pryor are expected to compete for starting roles, while talented underclassmen Dezdrick Lindsay and Jamari Phillips will also be in the mix.

The Ducks now have 11 scholarship players on the 2025–26 roster, with two spots still open — giving Dana Altman flexibility as he finalizes a roster with serious potential.

Oregon fans can finally exhale. Their anchor in the paint is back, and with unfinished business ahead, Bittle’s return could be the cornerstone of a special season at Matthew Knight Arena.