So what is the point?

  So Gary are you pro or con players swapping after committing?  I simply don't see a problem with it.  If the coach leaves or the program gets into trouble, the player has every right to change his mind.  Actually, until a player enrolls in school, they should be able to change their mind.  Think of it like this:

You are out in the job market seeking out a company to begin your career.  You go to Company A. They are close to home, have good perks, and the quality of life for the employees is second to none.  However, most of the employees are stuck in their original position for years.  Rarely do they get a chance to move up within the company and they don't really gain any additional skill sets for their future.  Then you go to Company B.  Company B is a longer commute, the perks are about the same and the company is just on the verge of either hitting the big time or going bankrupt.  Here employees are encouraged to continue furthering their careers even if it means leaving the company after only a short stay.  After interviewing with Companies A and B you decide to take the job with Company A.  A short time later, you find out that Company A is in serious trouble.  You haven't even started your job yet and discover- you may not even be hiring in to a solid situation.  In the meantime, it is revealed that Company B is going to hit the big time.  Company B calls you and tells you that they still want you and are holding a position open for you.  What do you do?  You obviously tell Company A "Thanks for the opportunity but I have had a change of heart and must do what is best for me."  You regret any problems but you have to take care of yourself and you family first. 

So, do you have a problem with the affore mentioned scenario?  If so, then maybe it's time realize- THAT IS JUST LIFE.  Sport mirrors life and life mirrors sport. 

The idea of having players sign for X years is an interesting concept.  I guess the way around that is to leave after the first year and pay it back with your signing bonus.  But even a slap on the wrist financially for these kids could be a step in the right direction. 

On the other hand, it may corrupt college basketball even further.  Let's say that Joe Awesome could be an early first-rounder right out of high school, but under the NBA rules, J.A. has to go to college for a year.  If coaches are selling their souls for the "one and done" types now, just think about what may go on to get these recruits when schools know they can recoup all of the scholarship money. 

"Hey kid, come play for us.  We'll get you drafted so high that you'll never miss that chump change."

When high school athletes are interviewed after signing a letter of intent the reasons that they often give for deciding which college to attend starts with, I've formed a relationship with coach --- or I feel that I can be sucessful in coach --- system.  The coach is as important if not more important then the school the athlete chooses.  If coach --- is fired or decides to leave for a better coaching position, a major factor considered in the athletes decision making has been changed.  The athlete should be able to reevaluate and change his mind if he believes it's in his best interest.