The NBA made history this week by holding its first-ever two-day draft event, marking a significant change in the way teams select new talent. Over the course of these two days, 58 basketball prospects saw their dreams realized as they were chosen by various franchises. These selections were made with the hope that these young athletes will become loyal contributors to their teams for years to come.
Unpicked Aspirations
However, the draft didn't unfold as hoped for everyone. Several players with legitimate aspirations of being picked went undrafted, leaving them to fight for slim chances through free-agent deals. Among the notable players who didn't hear their names called were Kentucky's Justin Edwards, Creighton’s Trey Alexander, and Clemson’s PJ Hall. Each of these athletes played pivotal roles on their high-caliber college teams during the 2023-24 season.
Justin Edwards’ exclusion from the draft was particularly shocking. Edwards, a highly-regarded wing from Kentucky, became the first player ranked in the top three of the Top247 Composite as a recruit to go undrafted. This surprising outcome left many scouts and analysts bewildered.
The Path Forward: Two-Way Contracts and Summer League
Fortunately for some of these undrafted players, opportunities still remain. Shortly after the draft concluded, reports emerged that a few of these snubbed athletes accepted two-way contracts. These contracts typically allow players to spend up to 45 days with the NBA team, while spending the remainder of their time further developing their skills in the G League. It’s a path that offers a glimmer of hope for late bloomers or those previously overlooked.
The NBA Summer League is another significant platform for undrafted players to prove their worth. The Summer League has a history of being a proving ground for many overlooked talents who go on to make a name for themselves in professional basketball. The basketball community will be watching closely to see how these undrafted players, including Alexander and Hall, perform during this critical period.
Assessing the Talent
Creighton’s Trey Alexander was a key player for his team last season, known for his versatility as a guard, adept ball-handling, and scoring prowess. His ability to adapt and contribute in multiple facets of the game makes him an intriguing prospect for teams looking to bolster their rosters. Clemson’s PJ Hall also brought significant value to his team through his presence in the paint and his ability to stretch defenses with his mid-range shooting. Both players have shown they can be pivotal assets at the collegiate level, and now they will look to bring that same impact to the professional ranks.
For these undrafted talents, the journey to secure a lasting position in the NBA will undoubtedly be challenging. The odds are stacked against them, but history has shown that many players who go undrafted can still carve out successful careers through determination, hard work, and seizing the right opportunities.
As the NBA Summer League approaches, scouts, coaches, and fans alike will be keenly observing how these players perform. The Summer League offers a fresh start and a crucial chance to showcase their abilities on a larger stage. For Justin Edwards, Trey Alexander, PJ Hall, and many others, it’s a chance to rewrite their narratives and keep their professional basketball dreams alive.