Overview
- The NCAA approved James Nnaji for immediate competition at Baylor and restored four years of eligibility despite his professional experience overseas and NBA Summer League appearances.
- Nnaji, the No. 31 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, has never played in an NBA or G League regular-season game, and his draft rights remain with the New York Knicks.
- Tom Izzo condemned the decision and broader eligibility trends, while UConn’s Dan Hurley and Gonzaga’s Mark Few also voiced concern about leadership and unclear standards.
- Drew said Baylor consulted compliance officials for months and is adapting to current interpretations, noting roster injuries and arguing lasting clarity requires collective bargaining.
- Nnaji arrived in Waco on Sunday for onboarding and a physical, with his debut timing dependent on clearance and learning the system, and his case is already referenced in ongoing eligibility litigation.