I don't disagree on either point -- Ennis leaving when he did included. Ennis had to go. It hurt us, but it was a good call for him, which is obviously more important.
However, I think we actually are talking about slightly different points. The point I'm trying to make is that I don't see the G League as developmental at this point. That doesn't mean your career is over if you end up there for a few stints especially as a young player. I'd even agree that it at least appears the NBA is leaning toward making it's G League model more of a true developmental league in terms of addressing the one-and-done issue.
Where I disagree with many here -- and where we may disagree -- is that I don't know that the NBA is currently structured to develop talent. Therefore I tend to feel like it's in your best interest -- long-term -- to make sure you are as prepared as possible before going to the league. Just to clarify here, if Battle wants to go, it's all good. If Lydon or Malachi want to go, it's all good. Also, important to note, it's not like coming back to college guarantees you anything and I think we can all agree in most cases isn't likely to improve your draft position.
But my point is that I think there's a reason that guys who may not be truly elite-level physical athletes -- think Brogdon, Josh Hart, even Draymond to an extent, Hibbert, Danny Green (even our program has seen a bit of it with Jason Hart, Etan, Wes as a fourth year guy -- have seen some success entering at later ages. I think it's because they are better basketball players when they get there and are better prepared to take advantage of opportunities when they come along.
So it's not the *right* decision to stay for, let's say, Battle. But I disagree with the notion that it is inherently the best financial and developmental decision long-term, especially if you're a player that likely will need to have a real job when your playing days are through. To be clear, I'm not entirely sure there is a *right* decision for these guys and I don't blame them for going at the first truly good opportunity. I'm simply saying the narrative that you don't have to study and you play against the pros, ergo you become a better player, is really a true narrative.