In Savannah, Georgia, prominent high school basketball players are exploring new paths due to challenges in recruitment, partly due to the introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals and the college transfer portal.

Caleb Jones, a standout at Benedictine Military School, had an impressive senior year, amassing over 2,000 career points. Despite these achievements, he struggled to attract interest from Division I colleges.

“It was completely unexpected, and we often discussed it,” said Frank Williams, Benedictine’s Head Coach. “Schools like Georgia Southern, West Georgia, and Kennesaw State, which we believed were potential options for Caleb, ultimately did not extend an offer.”

Instead of the college route, Jones opted to accept an offer to play for the YNG Dreamers in the Overtime Elite League, a developmental basketball league for players ages 16-20 based in Atlanta.

With the additions of NIL and the transfer portal to NCAA sports, many athletes find it harder to secure a spot on a division one roster out of high school.

Maki Joyner out of Savannah High averaged 18.4 points and 9.7 rebounds in his senior season and led the Bluejackets to their first state title since 1998.

Joyner had a few Division I offers, but none he wanted to fully commit to.

“I think 10 years ago, 15 years ago, he’s Division I no question,” said Savannah High Head Coach Georgia Brown. “I just think the law of the landscape is extremely tough for high school kids. If you’re getting looked at in any facet to play the game of college basketball you’re blessed.”

For now, Joyner is headed to Northwest Florida State College to develop.

“My plan is I go JUCO for a year,” said Joyner after signing to Northwest Florida State back in May. “At least put some more weight on myself, get humbled and get better and I’ll be straight.” 

Joyner said he is still in contact with several Division I coaches, who are excited to see how he develops in his first year out of high school.