The 3rd option is that both were happening at the same time. Mussini figured he was good enough to become a professional, and Trimble was probably told that we may have a spot for you but it's contingent on having a new ship available.
All of this may end up making us more well rounded (although less experienced) because Trimble really does look like a big strong guard who can do a lot of things well. If eligibility is possible, he has to make that happen. That's a train I'm sick of riding.