Undrafted .. now what?

The Draft Isn't the End, It's Just the Beginning: A Message to Our Undrafted Prospects

All 10 of our pre-draft picks for ABS under-the-radar prospects went undrafted in the 2025 NBA draft... now what?

To the prospects who didn't hear their name called in the 2025 NBA Draft last night, listen closely: your professional basketball journey is far from over. In fact, for many, this is where the real story begins. The draft is just one path to the NBA, and history is rich with examples of players who forged their own way, driven by an unyielding spirit and a relentless work ethic.

The sting of not being drafted is undoubtedly real. You've poured years of your life into this dream, honing your skills, sacrificing, and pushing your limits. It's natural to feel disappointment, but don't let it consume you. Instead, let it fuel you. This moment is not a definitive judgment of your talent; it's merely a redirect, an opportunity to demonstrate your resilience and prove to the world that you belong.

Look at a player like Austin Reaves. Just a few years ago, in 2021, he sat through the entire NBA Draft without being selected. Many would have seen that as a sign to give up, to pivot to a different career. But Reaves chose a different path. He believed in himself, accepted a two-way contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, and tirelessly worked to prove his worth.

What happened next is a testament to his dedication. Reaves quickly became a fan favorite, known for his gritty defense, high basketball IQ, and clutch playmaking. He earned a full-time roster spot, became a crucial component of a Lakers team featuring superstars, and even represented Team USA in the FIBA World Cup. He transformed from an undrafted hopeful into a legitimate cornerstone of an NBA franchise, signing a lucrative contract that once seemed impossible. His journey is a masterclass in seizing every opportunity and defying expectations.

Austin Reaves isn't an anomaly; he's a shining example of a long lineage of undrafted success stories. Ben Wallace, Fred VanVleet,John Starks, Udonis Haslem – these are just a few of the names that echo through NBA history, proving that the path less traveled can often lead to the most extraordinary destinations.

Now, it's your turn. The landscape for undrafted players is more vibrant than ever. Two-way contracts, Summer League opportunities, and G-League exposure are all avenues for you to showcase your skills. NBA teams are actively seeking talent beyond the draft, valuing grit, adaptability, and a hunger to improve. Many undrafted players have already signed two-way deals in the hours since the draft concluded, proving that teams are eager to invest in potential.

This is your moment to embrace the grind. Double down on your training. Attack Summer League with a vengeance. Stand out in every practice, every drill, every opportunity that comes your way. Let your passion for the game radiate, and let your work ethic speak for itself.

The draft may not have called your name, but the NBA is still calling. It's calling for the determined, the relentless, and those who refuse to be defined by a single night. Go out there, prove them wrong, and write your own incredible success story. Your professional basketball career is only just beginning.