The COE is a very good program? Are there elements that could improve - like everything, yes. I would recommend it for motivated & MATURE (Sport & Education) individuals that have to understand what they are there for. BA will tell you they are grooming future Opals or Boomers and that is OK. For most that go, whilst that might be their dream, getting to US College is more at the forefront of their thinking.
Going there is not for everyone - some are only 14 or 15 when they go, so that can be tough, moving away from family & friends at such an early age.
For those offered the chance to go it is prestigious and they get a higher profile than if they weren't there.
Like all selections, we (the punters) don't know who gets offered and who declines - we only see the ones who accept.
Having been involved with basketball for some time, there is always conjecture over which kids get picked. Some may not, in some eyes, be "the best" now, but they may well be in 5-8 years time. So the key word "Potential" comes in to play here.
As we have all seen there are many other pathways available (SEABL, WNBL, NBL, US High School, US College) and for those that are prepared to REALLY work hard, they will get to where they want to get to with or without the COE. But if you get selected and you work hard it can be a very good experience.