Overview
- Multiple reports on Tuesday say the SEC refused to clear former St. John's guard RJ Luis because he signed U.S. professional contracts after the 2025 draft, and LSU has stopped pressing his case.
- Luis had won a preliminary injunction from a court that declared him eligible, but the SEC's rule — ratified this summer to bar players who signed pro contracts or failed to properly withdraw from drafts — superseded conference clearance.
- The SEC's decision contrasts with recent NCAA rulings: the NCAA cleared 2025 draftee Salou Niang because his commitment predated the rule and he was never enrolled, and Brice Dessert is expected to be cleared soon.
- LSU coach Will Wade had privately hoped courts would reinstate Luis, but the program shifted focus to roster options as it finalizes lineups for exhibitions and the Nov. 3 season opener.
- The dispute adds to active federal litigation between LSU and the SEC and highlights growing fragmentation between conference policies, NCAA guidance, and court orders that will affect future cases about former professionals returning to college.