There are several reasons why Vander Blue going pro would be a HUGE mistake......
Numbers: At this point, there are 33 early entrants. There are approximately 22 seniors that are expected to be drafted. There will also around 10 international players drafted. Where does he fall in that mix?
Skills: Vander has come a long way, especially with his on court maturity. However, his handle on the ball and his shot still need some work.
Fox Sports: To me, the biggest reason why he should not go this year is because of Fox Sports. Next year the New Big East enters into unchartered waters. There are a lot of unknowns. But here is what is known. We have seen this before when Fox shocked the world and picked up the NFL contract. What happened? They promoted the living hell out of it and succeeded. Fox will bring the same mentality to the New Big East. With that, they will promote their product, and promote it in a REALLY BIG WAY. At this point, Marquette is a pre-season top 10 team. Vander Blue will likely be pre-season first team All-Big East, and actually has a shot at preseason player of the year. Fox will promote the living daylights out of that. Fox will be driving the Vander Blue bus.
So, go into the draft this year, risk not being picked at all or possibly late in the second round. Play D-League or Euro Ball where you will be taking the bus from Fort Wayne to Erie, or stay at MU one more year, let Fox build you up while you take a run at the Final Four and grab a first round or possible lottery pay check next year and make more than you ever would had you left one year early.
The decision is up to Vander Blue, so what ever he does I will wish him well, but in my mind, going this year would be a mistake.