Who said G league is the only option? NBA scouts aren't only looking at G League and NCAA games. Sure NCAA and G League gets more visibility (NCAA much, much more so, but I think that's mostly from a fans perspective, scouts will find you if you've got the skill), but other overseas professional basketball leagues pay really well for an 18-22 year old. RJ Hampton, who famously skipped college to go play in the NBL (AU/NZ pro league) makes $100,000+ according to
this article. Lamelo Ball makes a similar amount in the NBL from what I read. I don't see why KW couldn't do something similar. Why waste a year because of archaic NCAA transfer rules when you can go cash in on your talents, as well as showcase them for the NBA scouts.
In the Next Stars program like RJ Hampton and Lamelo are in, the players also get an apartment, vehicle, and other perks. Here's some text from a site describing the program:
"
What is this?
Overseas elite prospects who spend one year in the NBL instead of US college, typically bound for NBA. Think Terrance Ferguson, R.J. Hampton, LaMelo Ball. The NBL announced a change to the program in 2019. Recently drafted players qualify as Next Stars, as a draft-and-stash option.
How does it work?
Next Stars are not included in regular roster count, and do not count as an import. No restrictions on nationality. Salaries do not count towards salary cap. Update: According to
The Athletic, Next Stars get $100,000 in salary, along with other perks (apartment, vehicle, flights home during breaks). Draft-and-stash Next Stars are restricted to athletes who were drafted in the latest/most recent NBA draft. Undrafted players, and players from earlier drafts are not eligible. This was
confirmed with the NBL.