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NCAA basketball players are going to benefit from new rules that were put in place to help student-athletes. The new rules will allow “elite” high school and college basketball players to have representation from agents while also being able to return to school if they go undrafted in the NBA Draft. The new rules were announced on Wednesday, Aug. 8, though some will not go into effect until 2019.
“College basketball players who request an Undergraduate Advisory Committee evaluation, participate in the NBA combine and aren’t drafted can return to school as long as they notify their athletics director of their intent by 5 p.m. the Monday after the draft,” the NCAA announced.
“This change is effective if/when the NBA and NBPA make an expected rule change, which would make undrafted student-athletes who return to college after the draft ineligible for the NBA until the end of the next college basketball season.”
Student-athletes have more freedom and flexibility to decide about going pro or getting a college education, and they can receive financial assistance if they leave school early and wish to return later to finish their degree. https://t.co/Ubizwm4Bkb pic.twitter.com/UBjBMZZDlh
— NCAA (@NCAA) August 8, 2018
College coaches will also be able to attend more high school-sponsored events, exclusive NCAA basketball events will be offered for high school players, and there will also be more visits allowed.
As for the agents, the NCAA says:
Agent representation for high school students
Pending a decision by the NBA and the National Basketball Players Association, high school basketball players can be represented by an agent beginning July 1 before their senior year in high school, provided they have been identified as an elite senior prospect by USA Basketball.
The effective date will be decided if/when the NBA and the NBPA permit high school students to enter the draft.Agent representation for college students
College basketball players can be represented by an agent beginning after any basketball season if they request an evaluation from the NBA Undergraduate Advisory Committee.
This rule change is effective immediately.
The changes will help combat corruption in recruiting and will also help players be more informed on the decisions that will impact their futures.
