It's not Groundhog Day, but it probably feels like it for the NCAA. Another judge has given relief to class of 2022 athletes, and this time, it could directly impact Kentucky basketball.
On Tuesday, a California judge granted over 70 athletes a temporary restraining order against the NCAA, allowing them to return to college, and, just as importantly, allowing them to transfer. One of those players is former Michigan State big man Jaxon Kohler.
The players named in the suit have until Aug. 24 to enter the transfer portal. Kohler is certain to do so, looking to quickly find a new team for the upcoming season. He told Jon Rothstein of CBS Sports that the Wildcats were among the teams he is looking at along with Louisville, Kansas, and the BYU Cougars. He averaged 12.5 points and 8.9 rebounds for Michigan State last season.
The NCAA moved to a new system of eligibility this offseason, giving every player five full seasons at the college level. That applied to players already in college with the exception of the 2022 class.
An appeal of the various court rulings is sure to come, but the losses are stacking up for the NCAA, both in courtrooms around the country, and the court of public opinion. Another Kentucky target, Mark Mitchell is expected to hear about his his own case this week as well.
Coach Mark Pope is sure to be following all of the legal matters as he potentially seeks to add a 15th player to the roster. It's looking more and more like he'll have some additional options.
This article originally appeared on UK Wildcats Wire: Kentucky target gets step closer to college basketball return