Just a couple of days ago, it came out that highlight social media outlet “Overtime” is stating their own professional basketball league. They’re looking to pay around 30 players between the ages of 16-19 $100,000 a year. They will also provide medical and disability insurance, and if the players choose to not pursue a professional career, they will cover their college expenses up to $100,00.
It is very clear that the basketball world is changing. Ever since the NBA implemented the rule that there had to be one year between your last year of high school, and you going professional, all players have done is look for a way to get around the rule. Sure, some players went the traditional college route, and played one year in college before declaring for the draft. Others, however, did what they could to get paid as soon as possible. Most went overseas to play in Australia or Spain, but the end goal was the same.
More recently, a new option has come forth. We all know LaVar Ball, right? The loudmouth dad of Lonzo and LaMelo? Well, he came out and created the Junior Basketball Association, and started paying players in a professional league. It was a way for young kids that wanted to get paid right away to continue their basketball careers, without dealing with the NCAA. Then the copy cats came forwards. Sure, the JBA didn’t last long, but the NBA G-League and now Overtime Elite has come to pick up where they left off. G-League players coming straight out of high school can now earn contracts up to $500,000, on top of any sponsorships they could earn.
I think organizations like these are just the new wave in youth basketball. The Player Empowerment Movement is what is the hottest thing in professional basketball right now, so it only makes sense that it would extend to the high school players at some point. Not everyone is meant for college basketball, and I’m glad that there are more programs like this that provide different avenues for success. Will there be more? What will Overtime Elite actually look like? Will we ever see a G-League vs. Overtime Elite game? I guess only time will tell on this one. I’m just glad I’m here for the ride.
Round The Game 
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