Jalen Washington Leads NCAA Eligibility Lawsuit Over Age‑Based Model
Jalen Washington, a former Vanderbilt and University of North Carolina basketball center, has become the lead plaintiff in a federal lawsuit that challenges the NCAA’s recently adopted age‑based eligibility model.
The rule, approved earlier this year, extends the maximum eligibility window for Division I athletes who enroll in college by the academic year following their 19th birthday, allowing them up to five years of playing time.
Washington’s complaint argues that the policy creates an uneven playing field and undermines the principle of equal opportunity for student‑athletes who entered college later due to academic or personal circumstances.
Duquesne University’s athletic director has publicly voiced support for the litigation, saying that programs across the country are eager for clarity before finalizing rosters for the upcoming seasons.
If the court grants the requested relief, thousands of players could obtain an additional year of eligibility, potentially reshaping scholarship allocations, transfer portal activity, and the competitive balance of college basketball.
The outcome will also set a precedent for how the NCAA handles eligibility reforms, influencing future legislative proposals and the organization’s broader approach to athlete compensation and rights.