About Overtime Elite
Overtime Elite (OTE) is a groundbreaking basketball league that offers a unique blend of education, professional training, and competitive play.
It operates out of Atlanta and provides players with a direct route to professional careers in basketball, bypassing traditional college routes.
Origin and Development
The league commenced in 2021 with a mission to provide a different pathway to becoming professional athletes for the most talented basketball players aged 16-20.
Dan Porter and the sports media company Overtime conceptualized OTE, and the league enlisted former NBA Coach Kevin Ollie to lead the athletes’ development.
Structure of the League
OTE features teams composed of high school-aged players who compete in a structured environment.
The league emphasizes not only athletic competition but also education and life skills.
The players are eligible to earn salaries, receive signing bonuses, retain shares in Overtime’s business, and still have the option to maintain their NCAA eligibility if they choose the scholarship route.
The league has generated considerable interest for its alternative approach to the traditional high school to NBA Draft pipeline.
Business and Partnerships
Overtime Elite has attracted significant partnerships from renowned companies such as State Farm and Gatorade, and secured backing from high-profile figures like Kevin Durant, Jeff Bezos, and Drake.
To promote practical life skills, the league incorporates a focus on financial literacy in its curriculum.
Moreover, Overtime Elite has also established merchandise collaborations, including unique trading cards with Topps, further expanding its reach beyond the basketball court.
Key Figures and Aspects
The Overtime Elite league has established itself as a groundbreaking basketball arena focused on nurturing young talent and providing an alternative route to the professional world of basketball in Atlanta.
Notable Athletes
The league has seen the rise of talented players who have made significant strides in their basketball careers.
Twin brothers Ausar and Amen Thompson have been standout stars, with both being selected in the top five in last year’s NBA draft.
Other up-and-coming athletes like Matt Bewley, Naasir Cunningham, Jalen Lewis, Bronny James, Ryan Bewley, Izan Almansa, and Eli Ellis, who was named OTE MVP, are also gaining prominence through their participation in this elite competition.
Competitions and Events
Throughout the season, a series of high-stakes games and events attract attention from both fans and scouts.
Teams like the City Reapers, Cold Hearts, and Yng Dreamerz face off in a rigorous game schedule that includes the highly anticipated Finals and playoffs.
The OTE arena becomes a prime stage where moments of skill and sportsmanship unfold, as seen during the OTE semi-finals and in games where players like Amari Evans shine by winning titles like DPOY.
Overtime Elite Experience
The Overtime Elite league is not just about basketball; it encompasses a holistic approach including a robust academic program with a favorable student-teacher ratio and attention to mental health.
The coaching staff from diverse backgrounds adds depth to the training, making it a fertile ground for developing not only athletic but also life skills.
Facilities like gyms and weight rooms are state-of-the-art, and the OTE Arena boasts a striking shop for basketball aficionados.