The Choice of Basketball Players
In a world where basketball players like Egor Demin have options, the choice between continuing in European leagues or joining the collegiate ranks has gained new significance.
Demin’s Journey
With NBA teams increasingly favoring polished talent, Demin made the leap from Moscow to Provo, Utah, to play for BYU under the guidance of former NBA coach Kevin Young.
Friends and family questioned the decision when he admitted to them he had never set foot on the campus before committing; his first visit coincided with his move.
The Appeal of BYU
However, Young had convinced Demin that the BYU program was structured to simulate the NBA experience closely. This included training regimens, nutrition advice, and a playing style akin to that of professional basketball teams.
The Financial Incentive
The lure of a significant Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) deal worth over a million dollars only added to the appeal, making the move to college more enticing.
