NCAA Grants Eligibility to Former G League Player Thierry Darlan

What's Happening?

The NCAA has granted eligibility to Thierry Darlan, a former G League player, allowing him to play Division I basketball at Santa Clara. Darlan, a 6-foot-8 guard from the Central African Republic, played last season with the Delaware Blue Coats and Rip City Remix, averaging 10.9 points and six rebounds. He becomes the first player to gain NCAA eligibility after playing professionally in the G League. Darlan will enter college as a junior with two years of eligibility remaining. This decision reflects the NCAA's evolving stance on amateurism, influenced by recent changes allowing name, image, and likeness payments.

Why It's Important?

This ruling marks a significant shift in NCAA policy, potentially opening doors for other players with professional experience to join college teams. It underscores the NCAA's adaptation to the changing landscape of college athletics, where the lines between amateur and professional status are increasingly blurred. For Santa Clara, Darlan's addition could enhance their competitive edge, as he brings professional experience and skills to the team. This decision may influence future NCAA eligibility cases, setting a precedent for how professional experience is evaluated in college sports.

What's Next?

Darlan is expected to play a key role at Santa Clara, which has a history of developing players for the NBA. His performance could attract attention from scouts and influence his decision to declare for the NBA draft in 2026. The NCAA's decision may prompt other players with similar backgrounds to seek college eligibility, potentially leading to further policy adjustments. Stakeholders in college athletics will likely monitor the impact of this decision on team dynamics and recruitment strategies.