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College Basketball's Rulebook: Time for a Makeover?

USATuesday, December 30, 2025
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The Loophole That's Sparking Controversy

College basketball is in a bit of a pickle. The recent move by Baylor to add James Nnaji, a 2023 NBA draft pick, has sparked a heated debate. This has left many coaches scratching their heads, wondering what the rules even are.

Dan Hurley, the coach of the UConn Huskies, is one of them. He was shocked to hear that Nnaji could still play college basketball after being drafted. He thought that once a player is drafted, their college career is over. But it turns out, there's a loophole.

The Call for a Commissioner

Hurley believes that college basketball needs a commissioner. Someone who can set clear rules and guidelines. He thinks the current system is a mess, with coaches and players making decisions that benefit them, not the sport.

The Nnaji Case: A Perfect Example

Nnaji's case is just one example of the confusion. He was drafted by the Detroit Pistons but never played in the NBA. Now, he's committed to Baylor and has been given four years of eligibility by the NCAA. This has left many wondering, what's the point of the draft if players can just go back to college?

Coaches Speak Out

Other coaches, like Tom Izzo and John Calipari, have also spoken out against the NCAA's decision. They argue that it's not fair to high school kids who dream of playing college basketball. If players can just come back after being drafted, why would anyone bother with the college route?

The Bigger Issue

The debate highlights a bigger issue in college basketball. Who is looking out for the sport? Who is protecting its integrity? With so many loopholes and gray areas, it's no wonder coaches are calling for change.

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