CHICAGO — At the Big Ten Media Days, UCLA coach Mick Cronin was discussing his new star player, Michigan State transfer Xavier Booker, and dropped a notable thought about players’ futures in college basketball. He said, “When you’re 6-foot-11, if he has a good year, he’ll be drafted, whether it’s this year, next year … or his fifth year.” This statement highlights a growing concern among coaches as the NCAA is considering a major shift in player eligibility rules.
The proposed change, often referred to as the “5 in 5” model, would allow players to have five years of eligibility to play five seasons. As uncertainty continues, many college basketball coaches find themselves in a waiting game. Some believe the new rule might be introduced as soon as this month, primarily to align with football programs ahead of the upcoming transfer portal window. However, others think the implementation will take longer.
Nebraska’s coach, Fred Hoiberg, expressed concern over the unclear timeline, stating, “You hear something different every week.” If Hoiberg’s information is correct, some seniors, including Purdue’s Braden Smith, who is the Big Ten Preseason Player of the Year, may not get the option to return for a fifth season.
Similarly, UCLA’s new point guard, Donovan Dent, would use up his eligibility next season. If the rule changes, the impact could be significant for roster building and recruiting. Minnesota coach Niko Medved pointed out that the decision needs to happen soon, as it could influence how teams plan for next year.
Maryland’s Buzz Williams noted the potential changes, saying, “It would change things dramatically.” The uncertainty looms as many programs are adjusting to a landscape where money generation through players’ names and images is normalized.
Michigan State’s coach Tom Izzo welcomed the idea of having uniform rules for everyone, stating the importance of maintaining integrity in the game. However, he and others like Purdue’s Matt Painter remain concerned that the absence of redshirting could confuse player development pathways.
The implications are clear: If the “5 in 5” model passes, it could open more doors for older players while complicating the recruiting process for younger talent. Coaches like Michigan’s Dusty May argue that while it might be beneficial to coach older players, maintaining a balance in college basketball is essential.
Ultimately, the outcome of this potential rule change remains uncertain, but it could reshape college basketball dynamics in the years to come.
