College Athletes Sue NCAA for Fifth Season Eligibility

The NCAA Division I Cabinet has approved a new age-based, five-year eligibility model, replacing the previous four-season allowance without age restrictions. This change is scheduled to impact prospects enrolling in fall 2027 or later.

However, a group of 11 Division I athletes, including notable basketball players, has filed a federal class action lawsuit in Colorado against the NCAA. They are seeking a fifth season of eligibility, challenging the exclusion of athletes who exhausted their eligibility in the 2025-26 academic year.

The NCAA has reaffirmed its commitment to the new model despite ongoing litigation. The organization aims to create a more streamlined and legally sound eligibility system, eliminating waivers and redshirts while capping athlete ages.

Adding to the legal pressure, an Ohio judge recently granted a preliminary injunction for 24 men's and women's college basketball players. The judge determined the new eligibility rules unfairly impacted 2022 high school graduates, who were unable to compete against older players with additional eligibility.

This new age-based model starts an athlete's eligibility clock upon full-time college enrollment or by the beginning of the academic year following their 19th birthday, whichever comes first. Exceptions exist for pregnancy, active-duty military service, and official religious missions.