The NBA made history this week with its first-ever two-day draft, fulfilling the dreams of 58 basketball prospects as franchises picked players they hope will become cornerstones of their rosters. Amid the celebration, however, some notable players went undrafted, a scenario that leaves them fighting for the slim chances offered by free-agent deals.
Among the most surprising omissions were Kentucky wing Justin Edwards, Creighton guard Trey Alexander, and Clemson big man PJ Hall. These players were significant contributors to high-caliber college teams during the 2023-24 season and were expected to be selected.
Justin Edwards: A Notable Snub
Justin Edwards, particularly, stands out as a shocking snub. Ranked in the top three of the Top247 Composite as a recruit, Edwards made history as the highest-ranked player ever to go undrafted. His exclusion sent ripples through the scouting and analytics communities, leaving many experts baffled.
Edwards' potential was evident throughout his college career, making his absence from the draft even more surprising. His journey now takes a different path as he seeks opportunities through free-agent deals or possibly a two-way contract.
The Path of Two-Way Contracts
For those who didn't hear their names called, two-way contracts present a lifeline. These contracts allow players to spend a maximum of 45 days with their NBA team, while spending the rest of their time developing in the G League. Reports indicate that several undrafted players have quickly secured these deals, setting the stage for a new chapter in their professional careers.
Summer League: A Proving Ground
The NBA Summer League now becomes crucial for these undrafted talents. Historically, Summer League has been a platform for overlooked players to showcase their skills and make a case for a regular-season roster spot. This year, the basketball community will closely monitor players like Edwards, Alexander, and Hall to see if they can turn heads and secure their places in the NBA.
Trey Alexander, another player who went undrafted, was integral to Creighton's success last season. Known for his versatility, Alexander excels as a guard with proficient ball-handling and scoring capabilities. His all-around game makes him a strong candidate for teams looking to add depth to their backcourt.
PJ Hall, the big man from Clemson, also faces a challenging road ahead. Hall was crucial in the paint for his team and has the added advantage of being able to stretch defenses with his mid-range shooting. His skill set could make him an attractive option for teams in need of a versatile frontcourt player.
While not hearing their names called on draft night was a setback, the journey is far from over for these players. With the Summer League approaching, they have another opportunity to prove their worth and show that they belong in the NBA. The basketball community will undoubtedly be watching closely, eager to see which of these undrafted hopefuls can defy the odds and carve out successful professional careers.