Report: NBA could remove 'one-and-done' rule by 2021

The NBA reportedly sent a memo Friday cautioning teams that the one-and-done rule for draft eligibility could be eliminated by 2021 or 2022, according to ESPN's Zach Lowe.

Discussions on the issue will be held during annual meetings at summer league in Las Vegas, the memo said. Both the players' union and the owners would have to agree to the change. Current eligibility requirements for the NBA draft stipulate that players must either be at least 19 years old or at least one year removed from high school.

The memo specified that the rule wouldn't be expected to change any earlier than 2021.

The idea of abolishing the one-and-done rule has gained significant momentum on both sides of the table in recent months as the NBA looks to expand its influence on youth basketball. Recent federal investigations into corruption in both high school and collegiate basketball have also spurred change.

It's unclear how the league would implement a developmental system to handle more talent. The NBA reportedly investigated the possibility of setting up sporting academies - similar to those in professional soccer all around the world - within the United States.

Another possibility would be expanding the G League to include an affiliate club for each franchise. As it stands, only three teams (the Trail Blazers, Nuggets, and Pelicans) won't have a minor-league affiliate at the start of next season.