The NBA Draft Combine, particularly the five-on-five scrimmages, may have a greater impact on college basketball than on the NBA. This year, many projected first-round picks did not participate in live action, leaving NBA executives to focus on players aiming for second-round spots or late first-round picks. These players, who still have college eligibility, face a significant decision: stay in college or enter the draft.
Neither path guarantees success. Previously, the professional route often meant more money, even for those playing abroad or in the G League. However, with the rise of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals, this is no longer necessarily true. Only first-round picks receive fully guaranteed contracts, while second-rounders and top undrafted players typically secure two-way deals worth just over $500,000. This amount might be less than what they could earn through NIL in college.
Returning to school can be a gamble to improve draft stock, but this isn’t always successful, especially with next year’s draft expected to be stronger. While players like UConn’s Donovan Clingan and Purdue’s Zach Edey have benefited from staying, others have not been as fortunate. For players like Karaban, who is likely to be a late first-round or second-round pick, returning to college might not significantly improve his draft prospects.
