The NCAA has issued a statement clarifying that players who have signed NBA contracts will not be granted college eligibility, following criticism over Baylor's midseason addition of 2023 draft pick James Nnaji. The 7ft Nigerian centre, selected 31st overall by the Detroit Pistons, joined Baylor on Christmas Eve and could debut on Saturday against TCU.
Nnaji, now 21, was drafted at 18 and has played professionally in Europe without appearing on an NBA roster. His draft rights have been traded multiple times, most recently to the New York Knicks in October 2024. The NCAA's clarification aims to address inconsistencies in eligibility rules for international and domestic players.
NCAA president Charlie Baker stated that the association is exercising discretion in applying bylaws to ensure international players are not disadvantaged compared to American counterparts. The NCAA said players with regular NBA or two-way contracts are ineligible, but those from G League or other professional leagues may still qualify.
Arkansas coach John Calipari criticised the situation, arguing that any player who enters and remains in the NBA draft should be barred from college basketball, regardless of nationality. Baylor coach Scott Drew defended the move, citing other international players in college basketball and calling for collective bargaining to establish clear rules.
The NCAA also noted that recent court rulings have made eligibility rules difficult to enforce, with Baker warning against attempts to undermine the institution of college basketball.
