Wisconsin's Braeden Carrington gets legal win in fight for fifth year

Braeden Carrington, a former Wisconsin men’s basketball guard, is potentially closer to returning to the Badgers after a legal victory in his fight for an additional year of eligibility. Carrington was among the 70-plus athletes who filed a lawsuit in California, challenging the NCAA's implementation of a five-in-five eligibility model that deprived players of a fifth year of college basketball.

Braeden Carrington's attorney, Mit Winter, stated that there is still some legal work to be done before determining with certainty whether Carrington can play in the 2026-27 season. However, a hearing scheduled for August 25 may grant a preliminary injunction, which could either confirm or overturn the temporary restraining order issued on August 18.

If the preliminary injunction is granted, the NCAA would likely appeal the ruling to a higher court in California. Carrington, who averaged 8.3 points during his senior season with Madison, has not been required to remain in the city for his fifth year of college basketball, as the temporary restraining order allows the transfer portal to open from August 17 to August 24.

However, Wisconsin's coaching staff still has one open roster spot for the 2026-27 season, and the 6-foot-4 player could potentially become that 15th participant.