Should they or shouldn’t they? When an athlete enters the NBA draft, it’s not just about whether they’re eligible. It’s about whether they’re truly ready for the big leagues. The NBA is a different beast compared to college basketball. College offers players the chance to develop, but it’s also a place for them to mature, find their rhythm, and prepare for the immense pressure that comes with professional basketball.
Bronny James, drafted 55th overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2024, is a clear example of someone who rushed the process. I’m not saying Bronny doesn’t have talent. He’s shown he can play, especially with his time in the G League, where he averaged 21.9 points per game for the South Bay Lakers. But I do think he would’ve benefited from more time in college. The NBA came at him fast, and while his heart condition made things even more complicated, his development might have been stronger with more time to adjust. College could’ve given him the breathing room to build on his game before jumping into the chaos of the NBA.
Cade Cunningham, on the other hand, is one of those exceptions where a player is ready for the NBA from the get-go. After an impressive season at Oklahoma State, where he averaged 20.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists, Cade was clearly prepared for the challenge. He walked into the NBA as the number one overall pick and, while the Detroit Pistons have struggled as a team, Cade has shown he belongs. Averaging 25.7 points and 6.1 rebounds per game, he can handle the league’s intensity. It wasn’t a perfect start for him, and the Pistons’ rocky season wasn’t ideal, but Cade is a player who’s capable of stepping up even when the situation isn’t perfect. That’s why he was drafted number one.
Then there’s RJ Luis, who I think is the perfect example of how college can serve as a stepping stone. Luis has been one of the standout players for St. John’s, averaging 18.2 points and 7.2 rebounds this season. Under Coach Rick Pitino, he’s been part of the team’s transformation, and his journey reflects what I believe many players need before taking the leap to the NBA. Luis took his time, developed his game, and now he’s ready for the NBA draft. He didn’t rush into the pros; he gave himself the space to grow.
That kind of patient approach will pay off in the long run.
The reality is, not every college athlete is ready for the NBA right away. Sure, there’s plenty of hype around players who seem like they could be the next big thing, but the truth is that rushing into the league without a solid foundation can be more harmful than helpful. College basketball isn’t just about getting exposure; it’s about refining your skills, adapting to team dynamics, and preparing mentally for the demands of professional basketball. Not every player can jump straight into the NBA and expect to thrive immediately.
It’s clear that college is the right path for some players. It’s not just about raw talent; it’s about being prepared for everything the NBA throws your way. Jumping straight into the pros might look like the dream, but without the proper foundation, it could be setting these athletes up for failure. College offers a environment for growth, giving athletes the chance to mature both on and off the court before making the jump to the big leagues. For players like RJ Luis, this time could make all the difference in their long-term success.
