Tom Izzo Criticizes ‘Ridiculous’ Decision Granting London Johnson NCAA Eligibility
Tom Izzo, the head coach of Michigan State basketball, has openly criticized the NCAA’s recent decision to grant London Johnson eligibility to play for Louisville. Johnson, a former NBA G League player, is 21 years old and has spent the past three seasons in the G League. His commitment to Louisville for the 2026-27 season has sparked controversy.
Izzo’s Concerns on NCAA Eligibility Rulings
Izzo expressed his frustrations during a press conference, emphasizing the implications of allowing seasoned players like Johnson to shift into college sports. He questioned the effects on incoming freshmen who expect a fair shot at playing time. “It’s embarrassing and ridiculous,” Izzo claimed, highlighting the potential impact on younger recruits and the integrity of college athletics.
Pressure on College Recruits
The coach pointed out that this decision undermines high school seniors who aspire to play at the collegiate level. He remarked, “What’s the age limit now? Is it 30?” Izzo further noted that these rulings are contributing to an already chaotic transfer portal environment.
Precedent for Future Eligibility
The eligibility for Johnson was set after a similar case involving another G League player, Thierry Darlan. Darlan, also 21, recently committed to Santa Clara after being granted two years of eligibility by the NCAA based on his age and time since high school graduation. The NCAA has been allowing international players with professional backgrounds to join college teams, thus creating a framework for these new rules.
- City: Louisville
- Decision Date: Recent week, October 2023
- Players Involved: London Johnson, Thierry Darlan
- Coaches’ Comments: Tom Izzo
Izzo criticized the NCAA leadership for what he views as a lack of compassion for traditional college players. “The adults in the room need to do better,” he asserted, reinforcing his stance against this trend in college athletics.
This ongoing debate underscores the complex challenge of balancing player eligibility rules with the integrity of college sports, an issue that the NCAA will need to address comprehensively moving forward.
