The countdown to the 2025 NBA Draft has reached its conclusion, setting the stage with some intriguing outcomes as players opted to either dive into their professional futures or return to the college ranks. With marquee names like Otega Oweh, RJ Luis, and Labaron Philon making key decisions late in the game, it's time to break down how these choices reshape the landscape of both college basketball and the NBA draft.
Winners: The SEC
The Southeastern Conference emerged as the deadline's clear frontrunner. This isn't just about one or two programs—it’s a conference-wide victory.
Let’s talk specifics: Otega Oweh returns to Kentucky, while Labaron Philon and Tahaad Pettiford made headlines by staying put at Alabama and Auburn, respectively. Karter Knox chose to stick with Arkansas, and both Boogie Fland and Alex Condon will be suiting up for Florida once again.
These returns give the SEC an edge that could see them dominate national conversations once more.
Reflecting on last season, the SEC was a tour de force, sending 14 teams to the NCAA tournament, with half of those making it to the Sweet 16, and ultimately crowning a national champion. While it might be a tall order to match that historic performance in 2025–26, this roster of returning players sets the SEC up for another year at the pinnacle of college basketball.
Loser: RJ Luis
RJ Luis made perhaps the most puzzling call of the deadline. Despite not featuring prominently in mock drafts, the reigning Big East Player of the Year and a consensus All-American chose to keep his draft hopes alive rather than reaping the guaranteed benefits of a college return.
For context, a player of his stature could easily have secured a deal worth more than $2 million via the portal. Compare that with the relatively modest two-way contract possibilities in the NBA, and this decision seems quite the gamble.
Winner: Houston Cougars
With Milos Uzan returning to the fold, the Houston Cougars are riding high. Uzan is not just any point guard—he’s among the best, boasting impressive stats from last season, including 11.4 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game. His shooting prowess and defensive skills are top-notch, making his return a massive boost for the Cougars.
Sure, Houston lost Pop Isaacs along the way, but head coach Kelvin Sampson certainly won't be losing sleep over this trade-off. Uzan's decision transforms Houston into a preseason favorite, making them a formidable contender for national glory.
Loser: Pop Isaacs
Previously committed to Houston, Pop Isaacs ended up at Texas A&M, a move necessitated by Uzan’s choice to return. While Isaacs is set to enjoy a prominent scoring role under new coach Bucky McMillan and get compensated well, there’s a significant shift in team prospects. Transitioning from a title contender like Houston to a Texas A&M squad fighting for tournament relevance places Isaacs on the wrong side of the deadline's outcomes.
Winner: Michigan Wolverines
Yaxel Lendeborg, highly sought after in the transfer market, made a decisive move to Michigan after a lengthy flirtation with the NBA Draft. His commitment adds firepower to the Wolverine roster and amplifies their competitiveness in the Big 10. While Purdue remains the conference frontrunner, Lendeborg's presence elevates Michigan’s aspirations, positioning them as a potential top-ten team.
Losers: The NBA Draft
The NBA Draft, particularly the latter stages, feels the squeeze since numerous potential draftees opted to stay in college. With ballooning NBA contracts and the demands of the new CBA, teams are increasingly reliant on affordable talent—which just took a significant hit. Many quality players are now foregoing the pros for lucrative NIL deals in college, leaving the draft pool shallower than anticipated.
Winner: College Basketball
On the flip side, the college game scores a resounding win. With the growing influence of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, collegiate athletes are reconsidering their immediate jump to the professional scene.
This year, the capability to retain stars on the hardwood highlights the evolving dynamics that favor player retention—creating a more competitive and star-studded college basketball season ahead. Players like Labaron Philon and Tahaad Pettiford, once no-brainers for an NBA leap, are staying put, keeping fans thrilled and invested in college hoops.
