Kentucky gets an eligibility update on Mark Mitchell...sort of

The Kentucky basketball team found itself with an open roster spot that they weren't certain they would fill this offseason. However, multiple judges recently made rulings that potentially allowed a group of 2022 players to gain an extra year of eligibility. This development makes it much more likely that the team will be able to fill that last spot.

Mark Pope and his staff are reportedly keeping an eye on several players involved in these rulings. Among those considered the most attractive option is former Missouri star Mark Mitchell. Last year, Mitchell averaged an impressive 18 points and 5 rebounds per game while playing for Missouri. He shot 38% from beyond the three-point line.

Interestingly, Mitchell's name was not called during the NBA draft. Instead, he signed an Exhibit 10 deal with the Denver Nuggets. Nonetheless, he joined other athletes in bringing their case to court, seeking an additional year of play. Mitchell's case was heard in Louisville on Friday.

The primary hope for both the players and Pope was to receive a favorable ruling that would not only grant them another season but also allow them to transfer to their preferred school. Unfortunately, no ruling was issued on Friday. However, there is a silver lining as Judge Brian Edwards has pushed the ruling back to the following week. He instructed both parties to submit written arguments by Tuesday, after which a decision will be made promptly.

It is worth mentioning that the NCAA is likely to appeal any ruling that goes against them. This ongoing legal battle continues to play out, with the potential for a significant outcome for Mark Mitchell and the other players involved.