2025 NCDC Entry Draft To Be Held May 15, Live On Black Bear TV
Phases I and II Will Shape the Future of the National Collegiate Development Conference
The future of the NCDC takes center stage on Thursday, May 15, as the 2025 NCDC Entry Draft gets underway live on Black Bear TV. The two-phase event begins at 11 a.m. EST with Phase I, followed by Phase II at 2 p.m. EST, and promises to shine a spotlight on the next wave of NCDC prospects.
Phase I is reserved for players born in 2008 and 2009, giving NCDC clubs the opportunity to secure the rights to the 16U players. Phase II is open to all remaining junior-eligible players and allows teams to fill out their rosters and protected lists with more experienced skaters. Teams draft until they reach the maximum of 50 players on their protected lists, strategically passing as needed to preserve flexibility across both phases.
Last year’s draft was a showcase of how quickly talent can rise to the top: 16 players selected in Phase I made their NCDC debuts during the 2024-25 season, with an additional 23 Phase II picks cracking NCDC lineups. The league expects an even deeper impact from this year’s draft class.
“This is an exciting day on the calendar for the NCDC and for aspiring junior players across North America,” said NCDC Director of Hockey Operations Kevin Abrams. “It’s the first official step toward a player’s journey in our league, and we’ve seen year after year how impactful these selections become.”
Fans can catch every pick live on Black Bear TV. The live Draft Show will include coverage, analysis, and interviews with team personnel and league executives. To watch the 2025 NCDC Entry Draft, visit blackbearsports.tv/registration, sign up for a free account. Once registered, the Drafts will be live and will be free to view under the “Schedule” tab.
“The Draft is more than just selecting names – it’s about identifying players who fit our league’s commitment to skill, speed, and college advancement,” said NCDC Deputy Commissioner Tony Zasowski. “It’s a pivotal moment for teams and players alike.”
With every selection, a new chapter begins. Tune in on May 15 to witness it all unfold live.
About The United States Premier Hockey League
Founded in 2012, the United States Premier Hockey League (USPHL) is comprised of over 150 teams, fielding more than 20,000 players aged 8-21 in more than 100 organizations across the North, South, Midwest, West, and Canada. Our Junior Divisions consist of the National Collegiate Development Conference (NCDC), a tuition-free junior hockey league, and our Premier and Elite Conferences, all geared toward college and pro placement. Our youth and midget divisions (operated through the Tier 1 Hockey Federation) field full season 8U through 18U teams.
The USPHL has sent over 10,000 players to all levels of college hockey all-time including over 4,600 into NCAA college hockey, with more than 600 advancing to NCAA Division I hockey. The USPHL has also had 18 players who played in the NCDC drafted by NHL teams.