This year’s NBA Draft is seeing a major shift, as just 106 players declared as early entrants. This is the lowest number in a decade. Many college basketball 5-star freshmen choose to return to school instead of becoming professionals.
Why 5-Star Freshmen Are Returning to College
One of the key reasons 5-star freshmen are returning to college instead of entering the draft is that they can earn money while staying in school. With NIL deals, many take the guaranteed money before them rather than risk waiting for a bigger payday in the pros.
In contrast to NIL deals, pro athletes don’t get to pick where they go or how much they earn as rookies. Some players’ earnings rival or exceed what they would make in the NBA, especially if they are not picked in the early first round, since their draft position determines their contract.
The 2025 NBA Draft has its fewest early entrants in a decade.
It’s less than 1/3 of the early entrants the year before the NIL era began. pic.twitter.com/Fh6BMrA8KQ
— Front Office Sports (@FOS) May 28, 2025
NIL deals are still lightly regulated, but that could soon change. The proposed House v. NCAA settlement, which is still awaiting approval, would set up a system to review and approve NIL contracts to prevent abuse.
The risks of going pro too soon are also becoming clearer. Former Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders was once seen as a potential top-five NFL pick but slipped to the fifth round. As a result, he’ll earn $4.6 million over four years, far less than the $40 million he could have made with a higher draft spot. That’s also much lower than the seven-figure income he reportedly earned through NIL deals in college.
How College Offers More Opportunities for Growth
Projected first-round pick Yaxel Lendeborg opted to return to college instead of entering the draft and reportedly signed a multi-million-dollar NIL deal. He has since transferred to the University of Michigan, making them one of the teams to watch in the upcoming season.
But beyond the financial incentives, many want to continue developing their skills in college. They see another college basketball season as a chance to improve their game, boost their future draft position, and avoid the risks of entering the league before they’re ready.
KEEP READING: Insider Claims Arkansas PG Boogie Fland Could Earn $7 Million in NIL Deals For Skipping NBA Draft, But Fans Claim It’s Untrue
While the full impact of this trend is still unfolding, the current draft cycle marks a turning point. The decision by several 5-star freshmen to prioritize long-term development over immediate entry into the NBA signals a significant change in the sport, as college basketball keeps more of its top talent.
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