Intel from the EYBL: NBA Draft Moves, Giannis Rumors, and Major Decisions Looming

EYBL Session 1 brought out the stars — but it was the chatter off the court that stole the weekend

I spent the weekend in Phoenix for Nike EYBL Session 1, the opening stop of Nike’s grassroots league that features some of the top young players in the country. The event had a heavy NBA presence, with a strong turnout from scouts, high-ranking executives, and former players.

It felt like a mini NBA reunion at times, with so many former players either coaching, watching their sons, or just taking in the action. But while the action on the floor was packed with young talent, a lot of the real buzz was happening in the corners of the gym — conversations about the NBA Draft, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future, rising prospects gaining momentum with scouts, and possible trades on draft night.

Teams are facing major decisions on players weighing whether to stay in the draft or return to school, and the impact of NIL has added another layer of complexity to this year’s process.

From rising stocks to shifting team priorities, here’s everything I picked up over the weekend.