Home / Sports / Judge Rules for Player: NCAA Eligibility Fight Continues
Judge Rules for Player: NCAA Eligibility Fight Continues
21 Aug
Summary
- Judge granted temporary injunction to Mark Mitchell and other athletes.
- New NCAA rules exclude players from the 2022 high school class.
- NCAA vows to appeal ruling; court battle is expected to continue.
A Kentucky judge issued a ruling on Friday, granting a temporary injunction that could allow basketball player Mark Mitchell to join the UK roster for the 2026-27 season. Mitchell, a former standout for Missouri, joined a lawsuit challenging NCAA regulations that prohibit him from playing a fifth year and limit his transfer options.
Jefferson County Circuit Court Judge Brian Edwards' decision permits Mitchell and other plaintiffs to enter the transfer portal and play during the upcoming season. This development comes as similar rulings against the NCAA have emerged in other jurisdictions, though the organization plans to appeal these decisions.
While a federal appeals court in Colorado temporarily halted a previous ruling there, it does not impact the Kentucky decision. Mitchell is now cleared to enter the transfer portal as the court battle continues. Kentucky is considered a top choice, with coach Mark Pope seeking a veteran frontcourt addition.
Mitchell, a 6-foot-9 forward, averaged 18.3 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.6 assists for Missouri last season. His eligibility and transfer status remain pending final court decisions, but he is expected to be a significant addition if he chooses to play for Kentucky.
