NCAA urges study of change that would start eligibility at HS graduation or age 19

The NCAA is considering a major change to its eligibility model for Division I athletes. The proposed age-based eligibility model would allow athletes a five-year window to compete in Division I immediately after their high school graduation or 19th birthday, whichever comes first. This move is being explored in response to recent challenges to NCAA eligibility rules by athletes seeking to extend their college careers and capitalize on revenue sharing and name, image, and likeness deals.

The Division I Cabinet discussed this potential change at meetings that concluded recently but did not take a formal position. The Cabinet is in favor of continuing discussions with various stakeholders to gather feedback before making a final decision. The proposed model would include exceptions for circumstances such as pregnancy, military service, and religious missions.

This age-based eligibility model mirrors an idea put forth in an executive order issued by President Donald Trump in April. Currently, athletes are typically allowed four seasons of competition over five years with no age restrictions. The NCAA’s consideration of this new model comes at a time when the landscape of college sports is rapidly evolving.

During the recent meetings, the Cabinet also approved changes to preenrollment eligibility rules. One significant change would prevent athletes who have entered and remained in a professional sports draft from competing in college. This rule aligns precollege enrollment draft rules with postcollege enrollment draft rules, affecting prospects who have entered opt-in professional league drafts like the NBA draft.

Two basketball players, Charles Bediako from Alabama and James Nnaji from Baylor, played in college this past season after entering the 2023 NBA draft. Bediako played two seasons at Alabama, entered the draft, and later played in the G League before a ruling made him ineligible. Nnaji was selected by the Detroit Pistons in the second round, played professionally overseas, and was granted eligibility at Baylor because he had not signed an NBA contract or played in the G League.

In addition to these changes, athletes are now allowed to sign with agents before enrolling for purposes other than name, image, and likeness deals. They can also accept prize money in their respective sports without jeopardizing their eligibility.

Overall, the NCAA is exploring significant changes to its eligibility model for Division I athletes, reflecting the evolving landscape of college sports and the growing opportunities for athletes to leverage their talents and earn income. It will be interesting to see how these proposed changes shape the future of college athletics.