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Tom Izzo Blasts NCAA Over Case-by-Case Green Light for Former G Leaguers

Louisville’s addition of London Johnson following Santa Clara’s clearance of Thierry Darlan highlights shifting eligibility decisions without a formal NCAA policy.

Overview

  • Michigan State coach Tom Izzo criticized the NCAA for allowing former NBA G League players to enter Division I, calling the process opaque and unfair to recruited freshmen.
  • London Johnson, a guard with three G League seasons, committed to Louisville and is expected to enroll midyear, sit this season, and be eligible in 2026–27 with two years remaining.
  • Thierry Darlan, a Central African Republic native and former G Leaguer, was recently ruled eligible at Santa Clara, a decision widely viewed as paving the way for Johnson.
  • Outlets report the NCAA has not announced a new across-the-board rule and continues to handle these cases individually as NIL and revenue-share dynamics blur traditional amateurism lines.
  • Izzo warned the move could accelerate transfer churn and displace younger players, as UConn’s Dan Hurley signaled support for Izzo’s stance with a public social media response.