In the aftermath of the 2024 NBA Draft Combine, several players find themselves at a crossroads, navigating tough decisions regarding their basketball futures. While each player has their own unique circumstances to consider, there are those who may benefit from returning to college for another season to further develop their skills and boost their NBA draft stock.

Among the players who could benefit from another year in college is Hunter Sallis, a shooting guard from Wake Forest. Despite a solid showing in shooting drills, Sallis opted not to participate in the scrimmages at the combine. He currently finds himself in a draft range where earning a guaranteed contract in the early to middle second round is uncertain. Returning to school and potentially earning recognition as an All-American could elevate his stock and put him in a better position for the first round.

Bronny James, a shooting guard from USC and the son of NBA legend LeBron James, had an impressive combine performance. However, there are indications that he would still benefit from another season in college. While reports suggest that Bronny is set on declaring for the draft, a strong sophomore year could substantially enhance his draft stock and fulfill the expectations many had for him at USC.

Nique Clifford, a small forward from Colorado State, had a mixed week at the combine, leaving his NBA stock relatively idle. With a promising frame and shooting ability, Clifford has long-term potential but may benefit from returning to school and building upon a breakout season he had last year at Colorado State.

Jaxson Robinson, a shooting guard from BYU, faces a challenging decision. After a career year at BYU, averaging 14.2 points per game and displaying a smooth shooting stroke, Robinson has been linked to Kentucky, where his former coach Mark Pope now leads. Robinson must decide between returning to school, aiming to become an All-Conference player, or taking a shot at securing a guaranteed deal in the second round.

Payton Sandfort, a shooting guard from Iowa, had a disappointing combine following prior buzz that labeled him as a potential first-round pick. Struggling with his shooting and struggling to adjust to playing against his peers, Sandfort may find it beneficial to return to school and refine his game further.

In addition to these players, there are those who face particularly difficult decisions regarding their future. Justin Edwards, a small forward from Kentucky, entered the season as the top-ranked player on the CBS Sports Big Board. Although he didn't meet the high expectations placed on him, Edwards showed glimpses of his talent during the combine, leaving his decision up in the air.

Alex Karaban, a small forward from UConn, is a puzzling case. While the decision is unclear for Karaban, who has made a strong impression with his performance at the combine, he could choose to return to UConn and solidify his place as one of the program's all-time greats.

JT Toppin, a power forward from New Mexico, impressed observers at the combine, showcasing his potential as a future first-round pick. Despite not currently having the buzz to be a top-30 pick, Toppin could make significant strides with another year of college basketball, potentially elevating him to a household name.

Coleman Hawkins, a power forward from Illinois, delivered a standout performance during the final-day scrimmage at the combine. However, concerns linger about his offensive approach, and his stock remains uncertain. Returning to school and capitalizing on the opportunity to secure a significant NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deal might be an enticing option for Hawkins.

Ultimately, these players must make tough decisions regarding their basketball futures based on factors such as scholarship availability, draft projections, guaranteed contracts, and their personal development plans. While their performances at the NBA Draft Combine have shed some light on their prospects, the choices they make will have a lasting impact on their careers.