Did Amen and Ausar Thompson go to college?

By Edcel Panganiban February 29, 2024 05:49

In the realm of basketball, the names Amen and Ausar Thompson have recently gained significant attention due to their exceptional talents and unconventional path to the NBA. Born in Oakland, California and raised in nearby San Leandro, the Thompson twins have charted a distinctive educational journey that has set them apart from the traditional route to professional basketball. This article delves into the educational background of Amen and Ausar Thompson, exploring their academic choices and the impact of their decisions on their basketball careers.

High School Years

The Thompson twins, known for their exceptional athleticism and elite basketball skills, embarked on a unique educational path early in their lives. Their journey began as they were homeschooled for two years before moving to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to attend Pine Crest School, a private high school. It was at Pine Crest School that the twins commenced their high school basketball careers, immediately making an impact by starting for the team. Their prowess on the court quickly garnered attention, with Ausar leading Pine Crest in scoring during the 2020-21 season, and Amen making significant contributions to the team's success.

Decision to Skip College

As the twins honed their basketball skills and gained recognition as top prospects, they received substantial interest from notable college programs, including Alabama, Arizona, Auburn, and Kansas, among others. Despite the enticing offers and the traditional allure of college basketball, the Thompson twins made a bold decision to forgo the conventional collegiate route. The allure of earning money without enrolling in college ultimately won out, leading them to opt for an unconventional path to professional basketball.

Overtime Elite

The pivotal decision to skip college led the Thompson twins to join the Overtime Elite League, a platform that offers young players the opportunity to make significant earnings while maintaining their college eligibility.

This unconventional move allowed the twins to receive a salary, signing bonuses, and stock shares in the Overtime company. Moreover, it provided them with an environment that fostered professional development, as they were coached and trained by individuals with experience at the next level. The twins' time in the Overtime Elite League not only allowed them to develop their skills but also provided them with valuable exposure, leading them to be rewarded with top-five selections in the 2023 NBA draft.

Impact on Their Careers

The decision of Amen and Ausar Thompson to forego college and pursue a non-traditional path to professional basketball has undoubtedly had a significant impact on their careers. While their choice raised questions about the lack of competition in the Overtime Elite League, the twins managed to impress and demonstrate their abilities, ultimately leading to their selection as top-5 picks in the 2023 NBA draft. This groundbreaking move has not only altered their educational trajectory but has also influenced the landscape of young basketball prospects considering alternative routes to the NBA.

College vs. Professional Development

The case of the Thompson twins presents a compelling contrast between the traditional college route and the emerging trend of seeking professional development outside of collegiate basketball.

Their decision to bypass college in favor of professional development in the Overtime Elite League sheds light on the evolving perspectives of young athletes and the increasing opportunities available for them. While college basketball offers a platform for exposure and competitive experience, the twins' success in the professional arena without a collegiate stint underscores the potential viability of alternative pathways to professional sports.

The educational background of Amen and Ausar Thompson reflects a paradigm shift in the realm of basketball as they chose an unconventional path to the NBA. Their decision to skip college and join the Overtime Elite League not only challenged the traditional trajectory of aspiring basketball players but also highlighted the evolving landscape of professional sports.