US News
Louisiana court reviews injunction over NCAA and SEC eligibility rules for former pros
A state judge is weighing whether to uphold an injunction allowing former professional athletes to play college sports while considering potential contempt against the NCAA.
The short version
- A Baton Rouge judge held a hearing on an injunction preventing the NCAA from ruling former professionals and fifth-year athletes ineligible.
- The Southeastern Conference faces scrutiny over rules imposing penalties on member schools that roster former NFL or NBA players.
- LSU has recruited several former professional players, prompting conflicting legal interventions from state attorneys general.
- The outcome will determine player eligibility and the ability of athletic conferences to enforce independent roster restrictions.
Key facts
- East Baton Rouge Parish Judge William Jorden scheduled a hearing regarding a temporary injunction blocking the NCAA from barring former professional and fifth-year athletes from competition.[Associated Press]
- The court examined whether the NCAA should face contempt proceedings after the SEC enacted severe penalties for member institutions that roster former professional athletes.[Associated Press]
- LSU coach Lane Kiffin recruited multiple former professional athletes, including Dae’Quan Wright, Zxavian Harris, and Blake Cotton.[Associated Press]
- SEC university presidents voted 15-0, with LSU abstaining, to approve penalties including major fines, coaching suspensions, and loss of voting rights for schools adding former pros.[Associated Press]
- Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill filed a brief supporting the injunction, whereas Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr sent a letter urging the SEC to punish any violations.[Associated Press]
What remains uncertain
- Whether the court will find the NCAA in contempt or rule that the SEC's internal bylaws can be enforced independently of the injunction.[Associated Press]
- Whether the affected athletes will receive clearance to play in upcoming games once practice acclimation requirements are fulfilled.[Associated Press]