Victory Vaka transfers to Middle Tennessee after NCAA fight supported by Lil Wayne

CBS Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 24, 2026, 4:56 PM

Last updated Aug 24, 2026

Victory Vaka transfers to Middle Tennessee after NCAA fight supported by Lil Wayne

Summary

Victory Vaka signed with Middle Tennessee after successfully challenging NCAA transfer rules. The former Western Kentucky defensive tackle lost his scholarship while mourning his mother's death and filed a lawsuit against the NCAA for the right to transfer. With legal support from rapper Lil Wayne, Vaka's situation garnered national attention, leading to his immediate eligibility with the Blue Raiders. Middle Tennessee begins its season on September 5 against Murray State.

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Key Details

•Vaka's scholarship at Western Kentucky was non-renewed after his mother's death.
•Legal assistance from Lil Wayne helped fund Vaka's lawsuit against the NCAA.
•He entered the transfer portal on August 20 and signed with Middle Tennessee shortly after.
•Vaka is eligible to play immediately for the Blue Raiders.
•Middle Tennessee's season opener is on September 5 against Murray State.

Latest Updates

4:56 PMCBS Sports — After mother's death, Victory Vaka lands at Middle Tennessee with NCAA fight backed by Lil Wayne

What they're saying

"
Vaka lost his scholarship at Western Kentucky while grieving his mother's death, but thanks to a legal challenge funded by rapper Lil Wayne, he has a new home
— CBS Sportsby Chris Hummer

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