After a long-fought battle, it appears that things are beginning to settle regarding LSU basketball point guard Jalen Cook and his quest for immediate eligibility. Today, the NCAA reached an agreement with the states, clearing the path for multiple-time transfer athletes to participate in this season.
Following NCAA agreement, multi-time transfers to gain immediate eligibility for 2023-24
On Wednesday, multiple-time transfer athletes were granted a two-week period during which they could play without jeopardizing their eligibility this season. The ruling was big, as many players nationwide had been battling for the opportunity to play with little help from the NCAA.
This development followed a judge’s ruling that implemented a 14-day temporary restraining order. However, just two days later, an agreement has been reached, and the temporary restraining order is now a preliminary injunction, which will last through the end of the spring athletic seasons. These newly agreed upon terms have been submitted to the federal court for approval.
Here is the official NCAA statement on the agreement:
“Given the unprecedented decision by the courts earlier this week, the NCAA has reached an agreement with the States to convert the temporary restraining order into a preliminary injunction through the remainder of the 2023-24 NCAA championship season, as this is the best outcome for multiple-time transfer student-athletes wishing to compete immediately.”
“This action provides clarity for student-athletes and member schools for the remainder of the academic year — any multiple-time transfer student-athlete who competes this season will be subject to the same eligibility and use of a season of competition rules as all other student-athletes.”
What this means is that any multi-time transfer athletes who were not granted immediate eligibility for the 2023-24 academic calendar will now be able to play right away.
What this means for LSU basketball point guard Jalen Cook
In short, Jalen Cook is eligible and will make his 2023-24 season debut on Saturday vs. Texas.
This instantaneously provides a significant boost to the entire LSU basketball team, both offensively and defensively. Over the course of his career, the four-year veteran is averaging 14.4 points, 3.3 assists and 1.4 steals per game.
Furthermore, this grants the Tigers valuable experience they’ve lacked throughout the season. Although freshman Mike Williams III has assumed the role of the primary ball handler and performed well, there’s something to be said about three extra seasons of college basketball experience.
This will be the first time the veteran point guard has suited up in the purple and gold since 2021. Look for the 6-foot, 194-pound Louisiana native to make plays early and often, as this return has been a long time coming.
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