Jalen Washington, a transfer from Vanderbilt, will be allowed to play his fifth season of college basketball for the Tennessee Volunteers after a Texas court granted him an additional year of eligibility.
The decision stems from a lawsuit filed by the Texas Trial Group, of which Washington was one of five lead plaintiffs, seeking to extend eligibility for athletes from the class of 2022.
The ruling does not conflict with the recent NCAA Tenth Circuit decision, meaning state court judgments like Washington’s remain valid while the NCAA considers an appeal.
At Vanderbilt, Washington posted modest but impactful numbers: 8.9 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game, while shooting 6.8 percent in blocks and ranking eighth in the SEC with a 6.4 percent block rate.
Standing at a size that belies his defensive impact, Washington contributed 46 blocked shots in just 20.6 minutes per game, providing rim protection and rebounding that the Volunteers sorely needed.
A Strategic Addition for the Volunteers
Tennessee’s coaching staff, led by head coach Rick Barnes, targeted the transfer market to fill a void at the big‑man position, a spot that became expensive after the Michigan championship reshaped the portal.
Washington’s background as a Gary, Indiana native who previously played at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill adds a narrative of perseverance and adaptation.
Although the NCAA could still challenge the Texas ruling, for now Washington’s eligibility is secure, allowing him to focus on contributing to a team that aims to compete strongly in the SEC.