Millions of dollars? Classrooms? Endorsement deals? Final exams? If given choice of 2 out of 4 of these things, which would you choose? Think before you decide, or don't.
When presented the opportunity to provide for your family immediantly, you should definitely take the money. But why should you even have a choice? My POV is that the NBA should institute a rule similar to the NFL saying that a player must be in school for 3 years after high school to enter the draft. It's not that the players are not ready to enter the draft (see LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony etc.) but education is way more important.
I now put you into the position of a College Administrator. Given the choice between a Superstar basketball player who will be there for one year, and probably attend half his classes spring semester or a decent soccer player who has no intention of leaving the school before 4 years, who do you give FREE admission of your school too? I for one would rather spend my money on a hard-working 4 year syudent-athlete. The way these kids are using schools like USC and Kansas State as improved prep schools drives me crazy. How soon will it be before players opt to spend their 1 year in Europe playing pro basketball then making the move to the NBA, honestly. Its fun to watch these players play, but even better would be watching them get BETTER OVER 4 YEARS.
Players cant play basketball forever, and their playing careers could be cut short due to injuries. What then? No fall back options.
CASE 1: Michael Jordan - 3 year star at UNC, long basketball career, now one of the richest men alive due to his business savvy, not just his playing ability. Do you think he learned that in high school? No chance. He is a well-educated man that knew how to get the MOST out of his name.
On the other hand, what happens to Michael Beasley if he blows his knee Year 1 in the NBA? Marketability won't be enough to carry him and his family 20 more years, but with a college degree, doors would still be open. I dont think that these athletes should live their lives just off their name, they should have to cope with struggles through college just like a normal student.
NBA, the ball is in your court. You can save some of these kids before it is too late, lets just hope you choose the right 2 out of 4. Its a Pass or Fail test.