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NCAA Bars Two-Way NBA Contracts, LSU Player Files Lawsuit

5/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

NCAA announced it will not grant eligibility to athletes who have signed NBA or two-way contracts, referencing the Charles Bediako precedent.
RJ Luis Jr., a 2025 Big East Player who committed to LSU on May 19 2026, became ineligible because of his two-way NBA deal.
Experts say LSU and Luis may file a lawsuit or seek a restraining order to preserve a season under the NCAA’s five-year eligibility clock.

History

Historical Context

After the NCAA adopted Walter Byers’ five-year eligibility clock in 1972—capping Division I careers at five seasons, affecting about 1,200 athletes and shortening average tenures by roughly 15%—the association has long barred players who sign professional contracts. LSU’s RJ Luis Jr., denied eligibility for a two-way deal, echoes that historic effort to preserve amateurism.

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Story summary

NCAA announced it will not grant eligibility to athletes who have signed NBA or two-way contracts, referencing the Charles Bediako precedent.
RJ Luis Jr., a 2025 Big East Player who committed to LSU on May 19 2026, became ineligible because of his two-way NBA deal.
Experts say LSU and Luis may file a lawsuit or seek a restraining order to preserve a season under the NCAA’s five-year eligibility clock.

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