Saturday, April 25, 2009

Hoop Dreams Deferred


In an era where the NBA has enforced rules and age limitations to keep high school players from jumping straight to the league, Jeremy Tyler may have found a loophole that I hope doesn't turn into a trend. He will forgo his senior year of high school to play professional basketball in Europe before attempting to transition to the NBA.

I'm aware that the value of a dollar usually trumps the value of an education in the case of professional sports vs. college degree, but this is ridiculous. Nobody should drop out of high school to chase hoop dreams that many greats never reach, let alone a guy who I never heard of until this story broke.

Tyler said his decision came based on the lack of good enough competition for him to feel challenged. He believes that playing professionally overseas will better prepare him for the pros. His educational plan is to be home schooled and earn a GED while playing in Europe. His father is in full support and even encourages the decision.

These kids are growing up too fast. Forgoing college for the pros was risky because you bypassed a lot of development needed for the NBA, but dropping out of high school is unprecedented and risky. HIs father should be ashamed of himself for even entertaining this idea. I hope things go the way Jeremy Tyler thinks they will, because in this economy that GED will be pretty much worthless by the time he gets back from Europe.

-Ant

ant@theantandmikeshow.com
Posted by The Ant & Mike Show at 7:11 PM

2 comments:

  1. I couldn't agree more. The aim of high school, or pursuing an education shouldn't be to get better at basketball. I understand the lure of making the "almighty dollar" but education and knowledge are invaluable assets; some of the few things in life that can't be taken away from you. Not to put out bad vibes but he could easily get injured overseas, especially playing with men beyond his skill level, then where would be be?? And lastly, who wants to miss out on COLLEGE???...the best freakin' time of your life! Real Talk.
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  2. I agree as well...this also raises another issue that I commonly see in the African American community--being forced to mature to soon. White young adults typically have the luxury of living out their youth...they can make the mistakes while they're young and it doesn't matter as much. I see too many Young Black ppl trying to "get rich quick"....which makes us the first one's to fall. I doubt he is responsible enough to take on this transition...may even see some type of "case" against him in the future. Thoughts?
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