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Calipari Warns: Older Players Disrupt College Basketball Balance

12/8/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Arkansas men's basketball coach John Calipari warned of growing older-player presence harming competitive balance.
He said NIL deals let some athletes extend college careers.
The average age of starters in the Sweet 16 has risen from 20.8 to 21.6 since 2019.
Calipari urged the NCAA to reconsider eligibility rules as younger teams face more experienced opponents.

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Story summary

Arkansas men's basketball coach John Calipari warned of growing older-player presence harming competitive balance.
He said NIL deals let some athletes extend college careers.
The average age of starters in the Sweet 16 has risen from 20.8 to 21.6 since 2019.
Calipari urged the NCAA to reconsider eligibility rules as younger teams face more experienced opponents.