The Bewley brothers, Matt and Ryan, were once considered five-star basketball prospects with dreams of playing in the NBA. However, their path to Division I college basketball has hit a roadblock as they have been ruled ineligible due to their decision to forgo their high school eligibility and pursue a professional career.
Matt and Ryan Bewley, who are 6-foot-9 and 6-foot-8 respectively, were standout players at Northeast High School in Florida. They were highly sought after by top college programs and were ranked among the top high school players in the country. However, instead of playing their senior year of high school basketball, the Bewley brothers decided to sign with Overtime Elite, a new professional basketball league that offers high school-aged players a salary and the opportunity to play against professionals.
This decision to bypass their high school eligibility has made the Bewley brothers ineligible to play Division I college basketball. The NCAA requires student-athletes to maintain their high school eligibility in order to be eligible to play at the Division I level. By signing with Overtime Elite, the Bewley brothers have forfeited their high school eligibility and are now considered professional athletes in the eyes of the NCAA.
While the Bewley brothers may have had their sights set on playing college basketball, their decision to pursue a professional career is not uncommon among top high school basketball players. In recent years, there has been a growing trend of elite high school players opting to play professionally instead of going the traditional route of playing college basketball.
One of the main reasons behind this trend is the potential for financial gain. By signing with a professional league like Overtime Elite, players have the opportunity to earn a salary and endorsement deals that they would not be able to receive in college. Additionally, playing against professional competition can help players develop their skills and prepare them for the rigors of the NBA.
However, there are also risks involved in bypassing college basketball. Playing professionally at a young age can be challenging both physically and mentally, and there is no guarantee of success. Additionally, by forgoing their college eligibility, players are closing the door on the opportunity to earn a college degree and benefit from the exposure and development that college basketball can provide.
Despite the challenges and risks, the Bewley brothers are confident in their decision to pursue a professional career. In an interview with ESPN, Matt Bewley stated, “We’re just trying to make it to the next level and make it to the NBA. That’s our dream, and we’re just trying to chase it.”
While the Bewley brothers may not be able to play Division I college basketball, they are still pursuing their dream of playing in the NBA. By signing with Overtime Elite, they are taking a different path to achieve their goals and are hoping that their decision will ultimately pay off.
In conclusion, the Bewley brothers’ journey from high school standouts to ineligible Division I prospects highlights the changing landscape of basketball and the increasing options available to young players. While their decision to forgo college eligibility may have closed one door, it has opened up new opportunities for them to pursue their dreams of playing professional basketball. Only time will tell if their gamble will pay off, but one thing is certain – the Bewley brothers are determined to make the most of their talents and chase their NBA dreams.