What is a standard G League contract?

By Edcel Panganiban December 08, 2023 10:40

The NBA G League, formerly known as the NBA Development League, serves as the official minor league system for the NBA. It provides an opportunity for players to develop their skills and showcase their talent in hopes of securing a spot on an NBA roster. As part of this system, players in the G League sign standard one-year contracts with the league itself, rather than individual teams.

Overview of G League Contracts

Standard G League contracts are one-year deals that allow players to be called up by any NBA team. These contracts are typically worth around $35,000, although the exact salary may vary. While this is considerably lower than NBA salaries, it provides players with a platform to gain exposure and potentially earn a call-up to the NBA.

Select Contracts and the G League Ignite

In addition to standard G League contracts, there is also a unique type of contract called the Select Contract. Introduced in 2018, the Select Contract offers an alternative to college basketball or international play for young prospects. Players who have turned 18 and qualify for the contract can sign with the G League instead.

Select Contracts are given to top prospects who are selected to play on the NBA G League Ignite team. This team serves as a pathway for players to develop their skills and prepare for the NBA draft. The salary for players on Select Contracts varies, but it is significantly higher than the standard G League salary. In 2018, players on Select Contracts were paid $125,000, nearly four times the standard G League salary.

Two-Way Contracts

Another type of contract in the G League is the two-way contract. NBA teams have the option to sign two players to two-way contracts, allowing them to split their time between the NBA and the G League. Previously, these players were limited to 45 days with the NBA team, but now they can be active for 50 games.

Players on two-way contracts earn a flat salary of $449,155. This provides them with a higher income compared to standard G League contracts and allows them to gain experience and exposure at both levels. Two-way contracts are seen as a stepping stone for players to prove themselves and potentially earn a full-time spot on an NBA roster.

The Future of G League Contracts

The introduction of Select Contracts and the G League Ignite team has created new opportunities for young prospects to develop their skills and pursue a professional basketball career. These contracts offer higher salaries and a direct path to the NBA draft.

However, the logistics of how players are chosen for Select Contracts and the impact on G League teams' investment in player development are still unclear. Additionally, the age limit for NBA eligibility prevents high school players from entering the NBA draft immediately upon turning 18.

It remains to be seen how the G League will continue to evolve and whether Select Contracts will remain a part of the system. The G League's goal is to become a true minor league system and provide a platform for players to develop their skills from a young age. As the league continues to grow and gain professionalism, it could potentially rival European clubs and academies in terms of player development.

A standard G League contract is a one-year deal signed with the league itself, allowing players to be called up by any NBA team. These contracts provide players with an opportunity to develop their skills and potentially earn a spot on an NBA roster. In addition to standard contracts, there are also Select Contracts and two-way contracts that offer different opportunities and salaries. The G League is continuously evolving and shaping the future of basketball development.