Life After College Sports

Understanding the reality of professional sports and why preparation for life beyond the game matters

The Reality Every Student-Athlete Should Know

Each year, more than 530,000 student-athletes compete in NCAA sports across the United States. While college athletics provide incredible opportunities, only a very small percentage of athletes go on to play professionally.

98%

of college athletes will NOT compete professionally

For most sports, over 98% of college athletes will not compete at the professional level.

Estimated Percentage of NCAA Athletes Who Make a Professional League

5.1%

Baseball (MLB)

Many drafted players never reach the majors

7.1%

Men's Ice Hockey (NHL)

NHL pathway percentage

1.5%

Football (NFL)

259 players drafted annually

1.1%

Men's Basketball (NBA)

46 NCAA players drafted annually

0.9%

Women's Basketball (WNBA)

33 NCAA players drafted annually

0.7%

Women's Soccer (NWSL)

Limited professional opportunities

Professional Starting Salaries

For athletes who do make a professional roster, careers often begin at or near league minimum salaries.

$840K
NFL Minimum
per year
$760K
MLB Minimum
per year
$225K
WNBA Minimum
(proposed)
$104K
MLS Minimum
per year

Important context: While some athletes earn millions, most professional careers are short, and long-term financial success is not guaranteed.

In sports like baseball and hockey, many athletes spend 3–5 years in developmental leagues before reaching the top level—if they reach it at all.

Annual Draft Numbers

444
MLB Draft
NCAA players per year
259
NFL Draft
Total players per year
46
NBA Draft
NCAA players per year
33
WNBA Draft
NCAA players per year

The Reality Is Clear

College sports are an educational opportunity first, and a professional pathway for only a few.

UNITEDLV exists to help student-athletes prepare for success beyond the game

Through career readiness, leadership development, and life skills that last long after the final whistle.

Career Readiness

Preparing for professional success off the field

Leadership Development

Building skills that translate to any career

Life Skills

Tools that last long after the final whistle

Sources & References

  • NCAA – Estimated Probability of Competing in Professional Athletics
  • NCAA Student-Athlete Participation Data
  • NFL Collective Bargaining Agreement
  • MLB Collective Bargaining Agreement
  • Major League Soccer Players Association
  • Reuters WNBA CBA coverage