The dreams of 58 basketball prospects came true over the course of the first-ever two-day NBA Draft this week as franchises made their selections of players they hope will become mainstays on their rosters in the years ahead. For some hopefuls, however, the event was filled with disappointment, as several noteworthy players were left undrafted and will now face the challenging path of securing a spot through free-agent deals.
Notable Undrafted Players
Among the surprising snubs were Kentucky wing Justin Edwards, Creighton guard Trey Alexander, and Clemson big man PJ Hall—all pivotal contributors to their teams during the 2023-24 college basketball season.
Justin Edwards made headlines as the first player ranked in the top three of the Top247 Composite to go undrafted. His exclusion from the draft pool shocked many scouts and analysts, who had anticipated his selection given his impressive college performance and potential.
Creighton's Trey Alexander and Clemson's PJ Hall also found themselves overlooked. Alexander, known for his versatility as a guard with adept ball-handling and scoring prowess, played an integral role in Creighton's success last season. Hall, with his presence in the paint and ability to stretch defenses through mid-range shooting, was a key player for Clemson.
Two-Way Contracts: A Second Chance
Shortly after the draft concluded, reports emerged that a handful of this year's snubs, including some of the aforementioned players, had secured two-way contracts. These contracts are crucial for undrafted players, offering them a valuable opportunity to prove their worth. Typically, two-way contracts allow a player to spend up to 45 days with the NBA team while the rest of their time is spent developing in the G League.
Upcoming Opportunities in the Summer League
The NBA Summer League now represents the next crucial chance for these undrafted talents to showcase their abilities on a larger stage. Historically, the Summer League has served as a proving ground where many overlooked players have managed to make a name for themselves. Scouts, coaches, and team executives keenly watch these games, seeking to uncover hidden gems who can make a significant impact on their rosters.
For Justin Edwards, Trey Alexander, PJ Hall, and their fellow undrafted peers, performing well in the Summer League could be the catalyst they need to secure more traditional NBA contracts. The basketball community will undoubtedly keep a close watch on these players, eager to see how they seize this critical opportunity.
In a league where stories of underdogs rising through the ranks are celebrated, the journey of these undrafted players will surely be one to follow. With determination and tenacity, they aim to turn the sting of draft night disappointment into a stepping stone toward a successful professional career. The coming weeks promise to be a pivotal period, as these young athletes strive to prove they belong on an NBA roster.