Former Top NBA Pick Speaks Out on NIL’s Impact on Culture originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Anthony Davis built his name in college hoops the old-fashioned way, one dominant year at Kentucky, a national title in 2012, and an unshakable bond with Big Blue Nation. But in the age of NIL and the transfer portal, the college basketball blueprint has changed. And Davis isn’t afraid to say it’s not all for the better.
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In a candid conversation with Sports Illustrated’s Patrick Andres, the NBA All-Star pulled back the curtain on how he views the current landscape. “It’s tough because obviously, they didn’t have that when I was in college,” Davis said. “It kinda takes away from the game a little bit because of, and I’m not hating, it takes away from the integrity in the sense of players are only going to certain schools because of the money.”
Those words hit home for many longtime fans and alumni who feel the spirit of college athletics is drifting. Davis’ perspective isn’t rooted in bitterness, as he acknowledges the upside. Players are earning what he once couldn’t, with top talents like Cooper Flagg and AJ Dybantsa reportedly commanding deals in the seven-figure range. It’s life-changing compensation for athletes who drive millions in revenue.
But Davis argues that with opportunity comes compromise. “Because one guy can leave the next year, transfer, it gets tough when you start talking about culture. That kind of goes out the window, in my opinion,” he added.
He’s not alone. Coaches across the NCAA have echoed similar concerns. In the 2024-25 offseason alone, over 1,900 men’s basketball players entered the transfer portal. Programs are turning into revolving doors. Culture, once cultivated over four years, now has to be microwaved in a single season.
Former Kentucky Wildcat great Anthony Davis.© Scott Utterback/The Courier-Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK
Still, NIL isn’t going anywhere. With collectives growing and corporate sponsors investing more than ever, the system is maturing, and fast. Kentucky, Davis’ alma mater, is among the schools adapting aggressively. Their NIL infrastructure, backed by the Big Blue Nation and donor-led collectives, is among the most robust in college basketball.
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For Davis, it’s not about resisting change. It’s about accountability in shaping it. “I just hope the game doesn’t lose what made it special,” he said.
As fans, players, and schools navigate this new era, Davis’ message is clear: celebrate progress, but don’t forget the pride, loyalty and culture that once defined the college game.
Related: Kentucky Basketball Beats Cap Proposal With NIL Power Play
Related: Former Kentucky Great Has Words About NIL: “I’m Glad I Didn’t Play in That Era”
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 8, 2025, where it first appeared.
