College Basketball Returns to the Court After Chaotic Offseason
The Tigers were at the center of NCAA eligibility drama.
The 2026-27 college basketball season has begun following a tumultuous offseason marred by uncertainty over eligibility. The NCAA, conferences, and players all disputed rules regarding a fifth year of eligibility. LSU's team, led by head coach Will Wade, faced particular challenges. In June, the NCAA introduced a new age-based eligibility rule allowing players five years to complete five seasons, but it did not grandfather players who started college in 2022, sparking legal battles.
LSU's roster included college basketball newcomers Skyy Clark and Donovan Dent, who had sued for a fifth year due to previous collegiate experience. However, controversy arose when football coach Lane Kiffin recruited former NFL players Dae'Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris, who had NFL preseason contracts, leading other conferences to ban players with such contracts from returning to college.
Despite these legal battles, LSU's season opener against New Orleans is scheduled for Tuesday night, with 18 players on the roster. While legal battles continue, the NCAA maintains its commitment to defending its rules, including appealing individual eligibility rulings and their lawsuit against Ohio Governor Mike DeWine.
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