Home / Sports / Siena AD Disputes NCAA Player Eligibility Ruling
Siena AD Disputes NCAA Player Eligibility Ruling
8 Mar
Summary
- Siena AD John D'Argenio disputes NCAA's 'institutional mistake' finding.
- Antonio Chandler ruled ineligible for MAAC Tournament due to eligibility clock.
- Court and NCAA deny Siena's bid for player to compete this season.
Siena University's Athletic Director, John D'Argenio, has voiced his disagreement with the NCAA's conclusion that the institution made an "institutional mistake" regarding the eligibility of graduate forward Antonio Chandler. The NCAA ruled that Chandler, currently in his seventh year of college, is ineligible to play in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Tournament. This decision impacts Siena's quarterfinal game against Mount St. Mary's.
Chandler's bid for a temporary restraining order in New York State Supreme Court was also unsuccessful. The NCAA's stance is that Siena "misapplied the waiver," enabling Chandler to play in 29 games this season. D'Argenio, however, believes Chandler has four seasons of NCAA competition available, as this is his fourth full season playing NCAA basketball. His college career has been affected by a COVID-19 season wipeout and shoulder surgery.
The NCAA's primary argument is that Chandler's eligibility clock had expired, notwithstanding waivers for COVID-19 or playing non-NCAA competition. Siena hired a new compliance officer in January, after Chandler was signed in April. The MAAC league office first identified the potential issue during its pre-tournament roster review, notifying Siena on February 25.
Despite Chandler's absence, Siena is permitted to participate in the MAAC Tournament. Siena won only one game without Chandler this season. D'Argenio emphasized that Chandler is not at fault and the school fully supports him, while also stating that Siena does not believe a mistake was made.
