Top college basketball players sue for eligibility after court ruling
CBS Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 3, 2026, 7:43 PM
Last updated Aug 3, 2026

Several prominent college basketball players are suing for eligibility to play in the 2026-27 season following a Colorado court ruling that grants recently graduated seniors a fifth year. The NCAA is seeking an expedited appeal to contest the injunction, complicating the eligibility process for players across various states. High-profile players involved include Donovan Dent from UCLA and Jordan Pope from Texas, both pursuing age-based lawsuits against the NCAA. Braden Smith, a former Purdue star, is not expected to return to college despite being eligible under the ruling. This situation is expected to create considerable upheaval in college basketball rosters as teams adapt to evolving player availability and potential additions.
- •Colorado court ruling allows seniors from 2022 recruiting class to seek fifth year.
- •NCAA plans to appeal the recent ruling on eligibility.
- •Donovan Dent and Jordan Pope are suing for the right to play.
- •Braden Smith is eligible but not expected to return to college basketball.
- •Transfer portal chaos anticipated as players pursue eligibility options.
- 7:43 PMCBS Sports — Top players who have sued to return to college basketball after courts rule recent seniors can play fifth year
"Several big-name players are suing in the attempt to play one more season
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