Sports

Is the NBA's 'one-and-done' rule right?

WRITTEN BY
07/18/25
vs

Fact Box

  • In 2005, the National Basketball Association (NBA) established the “One-and-Done” rule blocking high school students from joining the League directly after graduation. Since then, eligible players are required to be 19 and out of school for one year.  
  • Some of the most successful NBA players were drafted out of high school, including Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Kevin Garnett, Jermaine O’Neal, and Tracy McGrady. 
  • Since 2006, there have been 107 one-and-done players admitted to the NBA, and 70% played for a top 10 team, according to Spectrum News 1. 
  • The NBA was founded after Walter Brown’s Basketball Association of America merged with the National Basketball League in 1949.

James (Yes)

The NBA's 'one-and-done' rule has been a topic of discussion and scrutiny, but it's important to recognize the benefits it brings to both aspiring basketball players and the league as a whole. One of the key advantages of this rule is its positive impact on player development. By requiring talented players to spend a year in competitive college basketball, they can refine their skills, gain valuable experience, and mature as athletes before leaping into the NBA draft. Additionally, the rule promotes enhanced exposure for these players. College basketball offers a significant platform for showcasing their abilities to a diverse and widespread audience. Events like the March Madness tournament draw immense attention, allowing players to capture the spotlight and increase their visibility among basketball enthusiasts and potential sponsors and endorsers. 

Beyond the court, the 'one-and-done' rule emphasizes academic growth. While dreams of NBA stardom drive many players, the reality is that only a fraction of them will achieve long-term success in the league. Encouraging these athletes to engage in educational pursuits during their year in college instills personal growth and equips them with valuable life skills. This emphasis on education creates a foundation for potential careers beyond basketball, ensuring that players have options to pursue after their athletic journeys. 

Lastly, the rule benefits NBA teams by allowing them to assess players more comprehensively. After a year of college play, teams can make more informed draft choices based on a player's actual performance against strong competition. This contributes to improved team dynamics and a higher potential for successful team-building strategies.


Luis (No)

The NBA 'one-and-done' rule is a controversial one that should be changed because of many reasons. Firstly, it limits the college experience for players, as they are usually forced to attend this academic institution for only one year. This period won’t provide a well-rounded educational experience for them and could even end up in incomplete degrees.

Also, many players may not be skillfully or even psychologically ready for such a high-level competition as the NBA. After all, these players only spend one year of college experience, which may not be the proper time to show they have what it takes to be part of the NBA. This can easily lead to struggles during their rookie seasons.

This rule should also be changed due to the financial pressure the player can suffer under, as he will have to wait one year before earning a professional salary, which can sometimes become a burden for the player and his family. Moreover, this rule can discourage international basketball stars from coming to the NBA, which can damage the league as many nations worldwide are currently creating extraordinary players. 

Finally, the rule can be too harmful to NBA teams as it could easily hinder their planning because of the limited information they will have on the players, considering their limited college experience. While the 'one-and-done' rule has some pros, its cons are so delicate that it makes it more negative than positive for players and teams.

  • chat-ic0
  • like-ic3
  • chart-ic10
  • share-icShare

Comments

0 / 1000