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7-Foot Prospect Faces $1.5 Million Dilemma Before NBA Draft

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Rodney Knuppel | Last updated May 11, 2025 1:13 PM ET

The big day for NBA Draft hopefuls is fast approaching.

On May 28, players must decide whether to remain in the NBA Draft and give up their college basketball eligibility or return to school.

Across the country, many players are weighing their options. In recent years, the rise of NIL deals has made these decisions more complex than ever.

One Big Ten program is awaiting a decision from Yanic Konan Niederhauser, who stands to earn a significant amount of money no matter which path he chooses. The NIL package to return to school is reportedly worth around $1.5 million.

According to an X post by Jonathan Givony of Draft Express, Niederhauser recently impressed at the G League Elite Camp boosting his stock ahead of a potentially tough call between turning pro or returning to college.

"Big stay or go decision coming for Niederhauser May 28. Return to Penn State for an NIL package expected around 1.5m, or stay in the draft?"

Big stay or go decision coming for Niederhauser May 28. Return to Penn State for an NIL package expected around 1.5m, or stay in the draft? One more G League game and then he'll certainly get the NBA Combine bump. Scouts want to see more regarding his motor, physicality and feel https://t.co/NE7tdK4uYC
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) May 11, 2025

When you’re being compared to Willie Cauley-Stein, you know you're in elite company.

Niederhauser, a 22-year-old from Switzerland, has played three seasons at Penn State. The 7-footer averaged 12.9 points and 6.3 rebounds per game last season.

Despite his efforts, the Nittany Lions failed to reach the Big Ten Tournament following a disappointing season. Niederhauser's final game came on March 8, when he posted 15 points and 11 rebounds in a win over Wisconsin.

Head coach Mike Rhoades is preparing for his third season at the helm in Happy Valley. The 52-year-old has compiled a 32-32 record at Penn State. Before joining the Nittany Lions, he served as head coach at VCU from 2017 to 2023.

Penn State is aiming to return to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2023. That year, they beat Texas A&M in the first round before falling to Texas, 71-66.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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