Judge Orders LSU to Play Star Guard RJ Luis Jr.

RJ Luis Jr., a former Big East Player of the Year, is now eligible to play for LSU through a temporary injunction granted by a Louisiana judge on Wednesday, October 25, 2026. This injunction temporarily shields the Tigers from SEC penalties regarding Luis's inclusion on their roster. Luis' attorney, Tony Clayton Jr., has stated that he will pursue legal action against LSU coach Will Wade if Wade refuses to play Luis, potentially leading to contempt charges for violating the court order.

The injunction, issued by Judge Ronald R. Johnson, takes effect as LSU begins its season on Tuesday, October 24, 2026. A hearing is scheduled for November 13, 2026, with both SEC commissioner Greg Sankey and LSU officials ordered to appear. Previously, in August 2026, Luis had received a preliminary injunction to play another college season after his time at St. John's concluded in 2025. The SEC had sued LSU in September 2026 over alleged defiance of conference rules regarding former professional athletes, citing similar cases involving football players.

Clayton also indicated plans for a civil lawsuit seeking damages against the SEC and Sankey, accusing the commissioner of making decisions based on personal feelings. He argued that Luis's situation is comparable to that of other players who had prior professional experience. Despite SEC rules, Commissioner Sankey has stated that the league will comply with court orders.