David Jablonski: DeWine grants Ohio college athletes fifth year of eligibility
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine signed an executive order that gives a number of college athletes a fifth year of eligibility. The order, announced Tuesday, Oct. 13, is the latest twist in a months-long saga that has created headlines in courtrooms around the country. The news came three weeks before the start of the 2026-27 college basketball season. According to a press release, Executive Order 2026-04D…
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed an executive order on October 13, granting a fifth year of eligibility for several college athletes in the state. This decision comes after months of legal battles and controversy surrounding the NCAA's new eligibility rule. The order allows athletes from the high school class of 2022 to compete despite the NCAA's interpretation of the rule.
Governor DeWine emphasized the importance of fairness, stating that Ohio's student-athletes should have the same opportunities as those in other states. While the order may benefit some local college basketball programs, it does not directly help players like former Dayton guard Javon Bennett, who transferred to Gonzaga after playing for Dayton.
The NCAA has vehemently opposed the order, arguing that it is unconstitutional for an elected official to legislate NCAA eligibility rules. The NCAA's President, Charlie Baker, emphasized that the organization's governance process established the eligibility rules and they will continue to be enforced consistently across member institutions.
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