European giants Real Madrid and FC Barcelona are reportedly considering shutting down their youth academies due to talent drain to the NCAA.
Over the past couple of years, the drain of European basketball talent to the NCAA has reached unprecedented levels, with nearly every top European prospect opting for the American route instead of continuing their development in Europe.
This growing trend is causing increasing concern among Europe’s elite clubs, who invest significant resources into their youth academies, now receiving little to no return on that investment.
According to Marca, Spanish powerhouses Real Madrid and FC Barcelona are even considering the drastic step of shutting down their youth academies due to this persistent talent exodus to the NCAA.
One of the key advantages the NCAA holds is the ability to offer NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals, which allow young players to earn substantial income, something European clubs simply can't compete with.
While these opportunities can be life-changing for the players, they are having a major impact on international, especially European, basketball development.
In response to this challenge, new regulations are being introduced. Going forward, international players who wish to move to the NCAA will be required to obtain a Letter of Clearance from their clubs and national federations.
This measure is intended to bring more structure and oversight to the process and help preserve the integrity of the global basketball ecosystem.
Additionally, according to Marca, in Spain in collaboration with the Higher Sports Council and universities, plans are underway to create a league for the reserve teams of ACB clubs so that young players can get minutes and develop their game.
