Incidentally, I would try to steer him back to Duke--& though I wouldn't be one to push for a mission, if that's what he was set on doing, I'd be very influential in helping him prepare & feel right about that decision.
I'm not all too high on LDS missions anymore (yes, I'm active)--but if a young person wants to serve the Lord in that capacity, very good things can come from it. Certainly better things than getting all wrapped up in the NBA world.
mutu.