Michigan State basketball coach Tom Izzo launched a sharp critique against the NCAA on Tuesday, blasting the organization for what he called a “ridiculous” ruling that allows former G League players to become eligible for college basketball. Izzo’s comments came in the wake of two recent commitments: London Johnson to Louisville and Thierry Darlan to Santa Clara, both of whom have professional experience in the G League.
Izzo expressed his frustration during a press conference, stating that he doesn’t “respect” the NCAA powerbrokers who made these decisions without consulting coaches. He accused the NCAA of being afraid of lawsuits, which he believes is leading to a breakdown in the rules governing amateur athletics. “This was sprung on us again yesterday where a guy can be in the G League for two or three years and then all of a sudden, he’s eligible,” Izzo said. “Most of my people knew nothing about it.”
The NCAA’s Division I manual typically prohibits athletes who have been compensated as professionals from playing college sports, but recent exceptions for international prospects have created gray areas. With the advent of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals and revenue sharing, the distinction between amateur and professional has become increasingly blurred. Darlan’s eligibility, as an international player from the NBA Academy Africa, follows this trend, but Johnson’s case as a domestic player without such ties is unprecedented and could set a new precedent.
Izzo raised concerns about the impact on current college players, particularly high school seniors who might lose their roster spots to older, more experienced G League alumni. He warned that this could lead to more players entering the transfer portal, further destabilizing team dynamics. “What about the freshmen you recruited there? That’s somebody’s son and he thinks he’s got himself a good place, and all of a sudden, shazam, they pull out of their hat and bring a 21- or 22-year-old in,” Izzo remarked, emphasizing the potential harm to young athletes.
Despite his strong criticism, Izzo made it clear that he does not blame the players for taking advantage of the opportunities. Instead, he directed his anger at the “adults in the room” who are making these decisions. “Don’t blame the players anymore. Blame the adults that make the decisions, that allow some of these ridiculous things to happen,” he said, calling for greater accountability from NCAA officials.
Izzo also highlighted the lack of communication from the NCAA, suggesting that the governing body needs to “regroup” and consider the “unintended consequences” of its actions. He challenged the NCAA to “fight the fight” against legal threats rather than capitulating, arguing that the integrity of college sports is at stake. While he joked about the “silver lining” of potentially recruiting former NBA stars like Magic Johnson, he stressed that the issue is no laughing matter.
The ruling could potentially open up a new talent pipeline from the G League to college basketball, fundamentally altering recruitment strategies and competitive balance. Izzo’s outspoken criticism reflects broader tensions within college sports as it navigates evolving definitions of amateurism and professionalism. His call for the NCAA to reassess its approach underscores the ongoing challenges in maintaining fair and consistent rules in the modern era.