NBA star and former Kentucky standout Anthony Davis has expressed disappointment with the current state of college basketball, citing a noticeable shift in the sport’s competitiveness and structure since his time at the University of Kentucky.
In a recent interview, Davis reflected on his one-and-done season with the Wildcats in 2011–12, a year that ended with a national championship and established him as one of the most dominant college players of the decade. But Davis says the game has changed dramatically — and not necessarily for the better.
> “College basketball doesn’t feel the same anymore,” Davis said. “The passion, the intensity, the sense of team — a lot of that is missing now.”
The 8-time NBA All-Star pointed to the growing impact of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals and the transfer portal as two major reasons for the shift in culture. While he supports players having financial opportunities, Davis believes the focus has moved away from team-building and long-term development.
> “I’m all for players getting paid — we didn’t have that chance when I played — but now it feels like guys are choosing schools based on money or exposure more than the actual basketball fit,” he added.
Davis also commented on the increasing trend of top prospects bypassing college altogether in favor of professional options like the NBA G League or overseas leagues.
> “Back then, playing for a school like Kentucky meant everything. Now, there are so many other routes that college just isn’t the same draw it used to be,” he said.
Despite his criticism, Davis emphasized that he still supports the NCAA and hopes reforms can help restore the integrity and competitiveness of the college game.
> “I want college basketball to succeed,” Davis said. “It gave me a platform and memories I’ll never forget. But it needs to get back to its roots.”
Davis joins a growing list of former players and coaches voicing concern about the evolving landscape of college sports in the NIL era.
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