Stay or Go: Important Players Testing the NBA Draft Waters
As May arrives, the NBA draft process kicks into high gear, with major events such as the NBA Draft Combine on May 11th-18th and the lottery on May 12th. The combine is a crucial event that has significant impacts on multiple levels of basketball, especially the collegiate game. Of the 106 early entrants in this year’s draft, 49 have kept the door open for a college return, maintaining their eligibility. Among them, a handful of prospects’ decisions to stay or go can alter the landscape of college basketball.
The top-ranked transfer in the country this season was UAB’s Yaxel Lendeborg. The six-foot-nine forward has consistently been one of, if not the best, mid-major player in the country. In his two seasons at UAB, he has been dominating, averaging 15.8 points, 11 rebounds, and nearly two blocks a game. Although Lendeborg committed to Dusty May and the Michigan Wolverines, he’s focused on getting his name called in June. Yaxel is the complete package as a Swiss-Army knife, due to his switchability and high IQ. He’s a strong paint presence due to a nonstop motor that allows him to thrive as a finisher and rebounder. Additionally, he’s a proficient playmaker for his size, with his coaches trusting him to put the ball on the floor and create for his teammates. If electing to return, Yaxel would complete one of the best transfer classes at Michigan.
As Auburn's designated sixth man, Tahaad Pettiford played a crucial role in their Final Four run. Despite his limited size, Pettiford is a high-end athlete with impressive blow-by speed and body control. He injected infectious energy into every possession for the Tigers, as a source of instant offense and playmaking. Pettiford’s presence would be felt in the clutch, due to his composure and ability to set the pace. If he returns, Pettiford would take on a larger role in Auburn’s offense as their go-to scorer. He would instantly be in the conversation for the best guard in college basketball, making Auburn even more competitive.
RJ Luis may have had one of the most disappointing outings of any star in March Madness this year, shooting three for seventeen in a closeout loss against Arkansas. However, that doesn’t diminish his value as one of the most critical players testing the draft waters. Luis was the 2024-25 Big East Player of the Year, averaging 18.2 points and seven rebounds a game. The six-foot-seven wing brings unmatched versatility and energy on both ends. He’s a tough shotmaker who’s continuously grown as an off-the-bounce scorer and connective piece. His length allows him to clog lanes and switch onto various defenders. The NBA upside is clear; however, if opting to return, Luis would be looking to find a new home as a transfer. His commitment to any program would drastically increase their odds as competitors.
Another hard-nosed wing who entered the draft and transfer portal is Darrion Williams. The junior made his mark in the Sweet Sixteen by drilling a game-tying three with nine seconds left to force overtime, then sinking the game-clinching bucket with seven seconds remaining. Williams is a well-rounded player capable of stretching the floor, rebounding, and guarding multiple positions. If he returns, Williams will be one of the most sought-after veteran wings in the country, as his physicality and plug-and-play ability will raise any program's ceiling.
Whether Florida will be in a position to repeat next season will be in the hands of Alex Condon. While not playing his best basketball during the championship run, Condon put himself in NBA draft talks for his high upside as a raw, do-it-all forward. His size, mobility, and flashes of shot-making give the forward all the tools to excel on the court. For a guy who has only been playing basketball for less than four years, he’s wildly talented. Condon’s ability to play inside-out offered Florida valuable lineup flexibility, allowing them to space the floor while maintaining a physical prowess. Questions regarding Condon’s current talent and strength have hindered him from solidifying himself as a first-rounder, making a return to school plausible. He’s only scratched the surface of his skills, and perhaps another year of development under Todd Golden can unlock his true potential.
