Michigan State basketball coach Tom Izzo recently expressed his discontent with the NCAA regarding the eligibility of former G League players joining Division I basketball programs. Izzo’s comments came after two players announced their commitments to college teams, challenging the organization’s previous amateurism regulations.
Izzo Critiques NCAA After Signings of Former G League Players
On Tuesday, October 21, 2025, during a press conference, Izzo criticized NCAA regulations that allow players with professional experience to transition into college basketball. He specifically referred to recent signings, including London Johnson, a former four-star recruit who averaged 7.6 points in three G League seasons, now committed to Louisville, and Thierry Darlan, who recently pledged to Santa Clara.
New Challenges for College Basketball
Izzo voiced his concerns about the implications of these decisions for the integrity of college sports. The NCAA traditionally barred any athlete who has received compensation as a professional beyond essential expenses from participating in college athletics. However, recent adjustments have allowed international prospects to navigate around these restrictions.
- London Johnson: Former G League player, committed to Louisville.
- Thierry Darlan: Former G League player, committed to Santa Clara.
- NCAA’s previous rule: No former professionals may compete in Division I basketball.
According to Izzo, the NCAA’s leniency towards players entering college from the G League is creating unease among coaches and players alike. He mentioned the potential for high school seniors to lose scholarship opportunities to older players, further complicating the recruitment landscape.
Call for NCAA Reassessment
Izzo emphasized the need for the NCAA to reconsider its decision-making processes. He stated, “The NCAA has got to regroup. They’ve got to regroup.” This call reflects Izzo’s broader concern that decisions made by uninformed individuals within the organization could adversely affect the future of college basketball.
The coach attributed the recent changes to a system that is increasingly ambiguous due to the evolving landscape of name, image, and likeness agreements and revenue-sharing programs. He argued that the rules are increasingly blurred between amateur and professional status.
In light of these developments, Izzo remains wary about the long-term consequences on recruiting and player development in college basketball. He urged that adults in leadership roles should be held accountable for the changes impacting young athletes.
Conclusion
As the NCAA navigates these new realities, Izzo’s criticisms underscore a growing concern among coaches about the balance between maintaining the integrity of college sports and adapting to modern recruiting challenges. The landscape of college basketball continues to evolve, posing significant questions for its future.
