The NBA and NCAA basketball represent two distinct realms of the sport, each with its own unique challenges and advantages that players face. Despite being recognized as top performers in college basketball, only a small fraction of consensus All-Americans transition successfully to the NBA. For instance, in the recent NBA Draft, only Cooper Flagg, the first overall pick, made the lottery cut, while others like Walter Clayton Jr. and Johni Broome faced significantly lower draft positions.

VJ Edgecombe, drafted third overall by the Philadelphia 76ers, highlighted the disparities in gameplay between college and the NBA. He noted that the restricted spacing in college made it difficult for players to operate effectively, especially when big men crowded the paint, contrasting this with the improved spacing and elite competition found in the NBA. In summer league play, Edgecombe's shooting efficiency at the rim was significantly enhanced, demonstrating how the NBA's style can better accommodate his athleticism and skill set.