Former G League pro granted NCAA eligibility in landmark ruling

[ad_1] Darlan’s path is exclusive, because the 21-year-old guard from the Central African Republic educated on the NBA Academy Africa earlier than becoming a member of G League Ignite in 2023. After Ignite folded, he cut up the 2024-25 season between the Rip Metropolis Remix, Portland’s affiliate, and the Delaware Blue Coats, Philadelphia’s affiliate.

With Delaware, he averaged 25.7 minutes over 29 video games, posting 10.9 factors, six rebounds, two assists, 1.1 steals and 1.2 blocks per recreation. He shot 37.7 % from three on 3.7 makes an attempt, showcasing versatility along with his 6-foot-8 body and defensive upside.

Darlan declared for the 2025 NBA Draft however later withdrew, preserving his collegiate eligibility and leaving open the choice to declare once more in 2026.

Traditionally, the NCAA has drawn a strict line between beginner {and professional} athletes. Gamers who signed skilled contracts in america usually forfeited their likelihood to compete in faculty. Darlan’s case breaks that mildew, granting him two years of eligibility starting this season.

For Santa Clara, a program that has produced NBA expertise starting from Steve Nash to current first-round picks Jalen Williams and Brandin Podziemski, Darlan represents a right away increase. His skilled seasoning and bodily instruments may rapidly elevate the Broncos’ profile within the West Coast Convention.

Santa Clara completed final season 21-13 total and 12-6 in convention play, inserting fourth within the standings underneath head coach Herb Sendek. For Darlan, the transfer gives a recent stage to showcase his expertise whereas persevering with his growth exterior the NBA highlight.

The broader implications, nonetheless, could also be much more vital. The ruling highlights the NCAA’s more and more versatile stance on amateurism in an period outlined by NIL rights and mounting authorized challenges. If one former G League participant can regain eligibility, others who took an expert detour might observe.

Nonetheless, whether or not this turns into precedent or stays a one-off tied to Darlan’s age, background and circumstances is unclear. Compliance places of work throughout the nation might be watching carefully, and rival packages may quickly check the NCAA’s willingness to increase related waivers.

For now, Santa Clara has secured a exceptional addition, and faculty basketball has taken a historic step towards aligning its traditionally inflexible beginner mannequin with the realities of contemporary participant growth.