Ohio State transfer Puff Johnson has been granted a temporary restraining order by a Franklin County judge, enabling him to play immediately for the Buckeyes after a prolonged eligibility dispute with the NCAA. The ruling on January 16, 2026, allows Johnson to join the team following the NCAA’s denial of a medical hardship waiver for a wrist injury sustained at Penn State.
Johnson’s eligibility battle centers on a misdiagnosed wrist injury that occurred during his time at Penn State. His attorneys argued that the school’s medical staff failed to properly address the injury, leading Johnson to play in excess of NCAA redshirt limits after a reinjury. This situation prompted Ohio State to file for a hardship waiver, which was rejected by the NCAA in the fall.
After the waiver denial, Johnson filed a lawsuit in federal court in November seeking immediate eligibility, but the court ruled against him. He then refiled the case in state court on January 15, and Judge Sheryl K. Munson granted the temporary restraining order the next day, highlighting the legal challenges athletes face against NCAA regulations.
‘We’re excited for Puff to join our program,’ Ohio State coach Jake Diebler said in a statement. ‘This has been a long process for he and his family. We’re happy for them and are looking forward to him getting on the court.’ Johnson’s lawyer, Mark D. Wagoner, added that the case aims to protect student-athletes’ rights to benefits from college sports.
Johnson, a former top-100 recruit, has played 111 games over five seasons at North Carolina and Penn State. Last season with Penn State, he averaged 10.2 points and 4.4 rebounds in 17 games before his wrist injury ended his season. His performance included a 13-point, 5-rebound effort in a win over Purdue, demonstrating his potential impact.
The timing of Johnson’s eligibility is critical for Ohio State, which holds an 11-5 record and is 3-3 in the Big Ten. The Buckeyes host UCLA on January 17, and while Johnson may not play immediately, his addition could strengthen the team’s roster for the remainder of the season. His integration will be closely watched as Ohio State aims for success.
This ruling not only benefits Johnson but also sets a precedent for similar cases, emphasizing the growing legal scrutiny of NCAA decisions. It reflects broader trends in college athletics where athletes are increasingly challenging eligibility rules, potentially shaping future policies on medical hardships and transfers.
