Two college basketball players, Chris Ledlum and Jordan Dingle, are taking the NCAA to court in an attempt to gain an extra year of eligibility. Both players played in the Ivy League before transferring to St. John’s, but due to the pandemic, the Ivy League season was not played in 2020-21. Their waiver for a fifth year was denied by the NCAA, prompting the players to file a lawsuit in the Queens Supreme Court in New York. The players are seeking injunctive relief against the NCAA for various violations, arguing that they are facing “irreparable harm” by not having an extra year of eligibility.
The lawsuit filed by Ledlum and Dingle claims that there are dire consequences for student-athletes who are labeled ineligible by the NCAA, including loss of scholarship, inhibited professional prospects, and the inability to leverage Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. Both players have expressed their desire to continue playing for St. John’s if they are granted an extra year of eligibility. Ledlum stated that he loves Coach Rick Pitino and being in New York, while Dingle mentioned his love for being close to his family, the coaching staff, and his teammates at St. John’s. Despite declaring for the NBA Draft when their waivers were declined, both players have until late next month to withdraw their names.
Ledlum and Dingle’s case shines a light on the challenges faced by student-athletes when it comes to eligibility and opportunities to further their education and athletic careers. By taking their case to court, the players are seeking justice and the opportunity to continue playing for St. John’s, a place they both consider home. The lawsuit alleges violations of the Donnelly Act, New York State Human Rights Law Executive Section 290, and the New York State Education Law Right to Pursue Higher Education and NIL. Their fight for an extra year of eligibility highlights the importance of fair treatment for student-athletes and the impact of NCAA decisions on their future prospects.
The players’ decision to contest the NCAA’s denial of their waiver for an extra year of eligibility reflects a larger issue within college athletics regarding the rights and opportunities available to student-athletes. Ledlum and Dingle’s case underscores the challenges faced by athletes navigating complex eligibility rules and the impact it can have on their academic and athletic pursuits. By seeking injunctive relief through legal action, the players are advocating for themselves and future student-athletes who may face similar situations. The outcome of this legal battle could have far-reaching implications for the treatment of student-athletes by the NCAA and the opportunities available to them in pursuing higher education and athletic careers.
The players’ desire to continue playing for St. John’s and their commitment to their team and coaches show the importance of the college experience and the connections formed through athletics. The lawsuit filed by Ledlum and Dingle highlights the potential consequences of NCAA decisions on student-athletes and the limitations they may face in pursuing their dreams. As the legal proceedings unfold, the case will shed light on the broader issues surrounding college athletics and the rights of student-athletes in seeking fair treatment and opportunities to excel both academically and athletically. Ledlum and Dingle’s determination to fight for an extra year of eligibility serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by student-athletes and the need for comprehensive reform within the NCAA to ensure their rights are protected and their opportunities are maximized.
