BYU center Jaxon Kohler will remain eligible to play for the Cougars through the end of the 2026-27 college basketball season following a preliminary injunction granted by a California court on Tuesday. The ruling in the Glancey v. NCAA case provides long-term eligibility for Kohler and other athletes from the 2022 recruiting class who are challenging the NCAA's five-year eligibility model.
Legal Victory for Kohler
The court's decision provides a significant extension of protection for Kohler. While a temporary restraining order obtained in August allowed him to enter the transfer portal and join BYU, this new preliminary injunction replaces that short-term protection with a more durable legal standing. Under the current ruling, Kohler remains eligible to pursue a fifth season of college basketball until at least a final trial, though no trial date has been set.
Scope of the Lawsuit
The legal battle involves 76 players, most of whom belong to the 2022 recruiting class. These athletes are contesting the eligibility model implemented by the NCAA. While the injunction is a major step forward for Kohler, his status remains subject to future legal challenges. The NCAA is expected to appeal the ruling and will likely attempt to pause the injunction while that appeal is processed.
Mixed Rulings Nationwide
The outcome of the California case stands in contrast to various rulings across the country regarding NCAA eligibility. In Ohio, an appeals court unanimously ruled that plaintiffs could not be grandfathered into the new model, overturning an injunction for 24 basketball players. In New York, the case remains pending after the NCAA appealed an injunction granted to players, including Kansas' Melvin Council Jr., last Thursday.
Indiana Precedent and Legal Strategy
However, the Indiana legal landscape offers a precedent that could favor Kohler. In Indiana, an appeals court denied the NCAA's emergency motion to pause an injunction covering dozens of players, and the Indiana Supreme Court rejected an NCAA attempt to bypass the appeals court. The trial judge in that case granted an injunction that remains in effect through a December 14 trial date. Notably, the lawyers representing Kohler in California also represent players involved in the Indiana litigation.
Path to Full Eligibility
Legal experts suggest several factors may work in Kohler's favor during the appeals process. Preliminary injunctions are generally more difficult to overturn than temporary restraining orders. Additionally, Kohler is protected by a state order that the Tenth Circuit does not affect. If the NCAA fails to secure a stay, Kohler will be able to continue playing for BYU, potentially strengthening his case for full eligibility by competing in real games leading up to a trial.
Courtroom Details
The ruling comes as the college basketball season approaches, with some observers noting that the dispute has persisted for months. On Tuesday, October 20, Robby McCombs reported that the injunction had been granted and noted that the judge hearing the case, Beth McGowen, identified herself as a BYU graduate and a Gonzaga fan. The case involves both Kohler and Gonzaga's Xaivian Lee.
Looking Ahead
As of Tuesday, October 20, Kohler has already appeared once for BYU in an exhibition game against Nebraska. Cougar fans are looking toward the upcoming season to see if the center will be able to suit up for the remainder of the program's schedule.
