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Fans Outraged as RJ Luis Granted Temporary LSU Eligibility Despite NBA Preseason Appearance

Fans Outraged as RJ Luis Granted Temporary LSU Eligibility Despite NBA Preseason Appearance
World Sports · 02:34:23 - Saturday, 31 October 2026

LSU basketball player RJ Luis has been granted temporary eligibility by the NCAA despite having appeared in an NBA preseason game, a decision that has sparked significant backlash from fans. The ruling allows Luis to compete for the Tigers while his case is reviewed further.

Critics argue that participating in an NBA preseason contest should jeopardize a player's amateur status, labeling the decision "embarrassing" and "nasty work" on social media. The controversy highlights ongoing debates about the boundaries between professional and collegiate basketball.

Luis, who previously played for UMass before transferring to LSU, appeared in a preseason game for an NBA team earlier this fall. The NCAA's temporary waiver permits him to suit up for the Tigers pending a final determination on his eligibility status.

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