College Basketball & the NBA: A Development Pipeline
- Once overshadowed by international leagues and developmental programs, college basketball is experiencing a resurgence as a primary pathway to the NBA.
- Demin, a projected NBA draft lottery pick, chose BYU over staying in Europe, a decision that initially surprised his family.
- After a period where international leagues dominated the top of the draft, this year's projections show a important increase in college players expected to be selected in the...
college Basketball Reclaims Its Spot as NBA Draft Pipeline
Updated June 18, 2025
Once overshadowed by international leagues and developmental programs, college basketball is experiencing a resurgence as a primary pathway to the NBA. The name, image, and likeness (NIL) era, combined with programs mirroring NBA structures, is attracting top talent and producing draft-ready players like BYU’s egor Demin.
Demin, a projected NBA draft lottery pick, chose BYU over staying in Europe, a decision that initially surprised his family. Former NBA assistant coach Kevin Young convinced Demin that BYU’s NBA-style system and a lucrative NIL package would best prepare him for the pros. BYU’s Sweet 16 run further showcased Demin’s abilities to NBA scouts.
The numbers reflect this shift. After a period where international leagues dominated the top of the draft, this year’s projections show a important increase in college players expected to be selected in the lottery. This resurgence is attributed to the combination of NIL deals and the possibility to develop within a structured,competitive environment.
“[College basketball is] a better adjustment to american basketball since the final goal is to be an NBA player for me,” Demin said, highlighting the value of adapting to the physicality and pace of the American game.
Illinois head coach Brad underwood has consistently produced NBA talent, emphasizing the importance of professionalism, maturity, and a winning mentality. He believes that the culture built within college programs provides NBA teams with a level of comfort when selecting players.
nikola Filipovich, Demin’s agent, emphasizes that BYU provided Demin with more than just basketball skills. “BYU didn’t just teach him how to play in the U.S., but I think it also taught him how to live within the U.S.”
What’s next
As college basketball continues to adapt and offer a compelling pathway to the NBA, expect to see more top prospects choosing the college route, further solidifying its position as a premier development league.