Mizzou basketball’s Mark Mitchell gets temporary eligibility win in court

In a recent Kentucky court case concerning the NCAA, Mark Mitchell has once again secured a temporary victory, allowing him to compete for Missouri basketball. Initially granted a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction, the case has seen multiple shifts in the past two months. After Mitchell's appeal, a circuit court judge ruled in his favor on Friday, granting him a temporary injunction.

Coach Dennis Gates supported Mitchell in the evidentiary hearing, testifying that permitting the Plaintiff to compete for an additional year would not affect roster spots or hinder other players. The judge, Brian Edwards, emphasized that the NCAA cannot restrict Mitchell's participation in the 2026-27 collegiate season due to his past competitions, lack of involvement in the NCAA transfer portal, and absence from professional games or practices.

Gates also submitted an affidavit of support for prospective guard CJ Gunn, who similarly received a temporary restraining order from Judge Jeff Harris, with a further hearing scheduled for October 23.

For now, both Mitchell and Gunn are eligible to play for the Tigers, although the NCAA is likely to contest the ruling, sending the case back to the appellate court. An appeals hearing could occur sooner rather than later, potentially leading to Mitchell's eligibility for the majority or entirety of the 2026-27 season. Should the appellate court dissolve the temporary injunction, there's a high likelihood Mitchell would re-file the case, as Gunn has done.

Despite the ongoing legal battles, both Mitchell and Gunn secured eligibility wins this week, though neither case is yet concluded. Missouri basketball's season commences on November 3 against Cleveland State at Mizzou Arena.