Prospect Precocity and University Choice: Evidence from One-and-Done Talent in College Basketball

Abstract

This study examines the impact of precocity on the university choices made by college basketball prospects. More specifically, it investigates the university and coach-related factors that lead to successful recruiting of one-and-done players in order to shed light on the decision-making process that they utilize in their preparation for a professional basketball career. Probit models utilizing panel data covering the life of the NBA’s collective bargaining agreement establishing the one-and-done rule suggest that employment of successful coaches, particularly those with coaching experience in the NBA, increases the probability a university will attract one-and-done talent. Additionally, universities with a rich heritage in men’s basketball, and those that have produced collegiate stars and NBA prospects, are most successful in attracting these precocious prospects.

Keywords

prospect precocity university choice behavioral economics sports economics

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