One overstayed the standard four years in Missouri. The other left before his ended.

Whether too late or too soon, both Laurence Bowers and Phil Pressey have signed with NBA teams after going undrafted.

Bowers, a six-eight forward, signed an NBA Summer League contract with his hometown team, the Memphis Grizzlies. Pressey signed with one of the Association’s most storied franchises, the Boston Celtics.

“It’s a surreal feeling,” Pressey said. “It just gives me motivation to keep working. I know you can’t ever be comfortable in this league. You’ve got to continue to improve yourself.”

Bowers also appreciated the opportunity, sending out a message on Twitter from his @LBowers_21 account thanking the Grizzlies for the opportunity to play in his hometown, using the hash tag “Blessed.”

The fifth year senior has reason the feel that way. Bowers tore his ACL in his left knee just before the 2011-2012 season, forcing him to redshirt what would have been his senior season. He then sprained the MCL in his right knee halfway through 2012.

Bowers adjusted his game, going from bruising forward to finesse shooter. He raised his scoring average by 2.5 points per game, and after not making a single 3-pointer in 2010-2011, Bowers shot 39 percent from behind the arc.

Pressey, who was named Southeastern Conference Preseason Player of the Year, had a slightly more disappointing year. Despite improving in most statistical categories, Pressey botched several late game situations for Missouri, causing turnovers or using questionable shot selection.

He still made the 2013 all-SEC first team, and with a year of eligibility remaining, declared for the NBA Draft. After not hearing his name called, Pressey has some advice for those thinking of leaving early.

“Just to ask yourself, ‘Are you ready? Are you ready to play at the next level?’ Overall, I just felt like I was ready, so that was the reason why I decided to leave,” Pressey said. “(Ask yourself) how you think your game will fit at the next level. Do you think you’re physically, mentally ready for the next level?”

Pressey, listed at 5-11, will have a chance to play for former Butler coach Brad Stevens who signed with Boston July 3. Pressey spoke with him that day, and said he is looking forward to playing for Stevens.

“From what I’ve heard, he’s a player’s coach.” Pressey said.

Pressey will play for the Celtics in the NBA Summer League in Orlando July 7-12. Bowers will suit up for Memphis in Las Vegas July 12-22.