DI Basketball Oversight Committees Propose Deregulation Package
The Division I Men’s and Women’s Basketball Oversight Committees have put forth a legislative package aimed at deregulating several aspects of college basketball. This proposal, introduced on Friday, includes changes to preseason exhibitions, foreign tours, coaching limitations, and summer access hours. For these changes to officially take effect, they must first receive approval from the Division I Cabinet, which will review the legislation in April.
Deregulation of Preseason Exhibitions
The proposed changes for the 2026-27 academic year would allow college basketball teams to participate in three preseason scrimmages and exhibition games against four-year institutions. This is an increase from the current allowance of two such games. The committees argue that these additional opportunities will better prepare student-athletes for the regular season and increase the visibility of college basketball.
Flexibility in Foreign Tours
Both oversight committees are also advocating for a change that would permit teams to conduct one foreign tour each year. This would replace the existing guideline that restricts schools to only a single foreign tour every four years. The committees believe this flexibility will enhance the experience for student-athletes and benefit the programs overall.
Revisions to Summer Access Hours
Another significant recommendation involves summer access hours. The committees propose abolishing the current limits that restrict skill-related instruction to just four of the allowed eight hours per week. If approved, coaches would have the discretion to determine how these hours are divided between skill instruction and weightlifting, enabling a more personalized training approach.
Expanded Role for Staff Members
The proposed legislation would also allow any team staff member to provide technical and tactical guidance to student-athletes. Additionally, schools could designate up to six staff members for off-campus contact and evaluation of prospective athletes, limiting this to four staff members daily. Importantly, the head coach must be among the designated off-campus recruiters. If finalized, this legislation would take effect in the summer of 2026.
New Guidelines for Prospective Athletes
In a move to align men’s basketball recruitment with existing women’s rules, the Division I Men’s Basketball Oversight Committee has proposed allowing high school freshmen to take unofficial visits. Previously, prospective athletes could only make unofficial visits starting August 1 of their sophomore year.
These proposals are designed to foster a more engaging environment for student-athletes while ensuring that college basketball continues to evolve and remain competitive.
