Jalen Cook’s LSU return may have to wait.
The former Tulane point guard began his career at LSU, but upon transferring back to Baton Rouge after two years in New Orleans, he was deemed ineligible for the 2023-24 season as a two-time transfer.
While awaiting a waiver, it seemed Cook got what he needed to make his season debut as a federal judge filed a temporary restraining order allowing ineligible athletes to play during a 14-day window.
The NCAA initially said it would not pursue retroactive action against any player who participated during the 14-day window if the ruling were later overturned, and coach [autotag]Matt McMahon[/autotag] said he expected Cook to be available on Saturday against Texas in Houston.
Those plans may be on hold, however.
On Thursday, the NCAA reversed course. In its latest guidance, it deemed that players who participate during the window would lose a season of eligibility if the court order is ultimately reversed.
NCAA provides clarity on a lingering issue: An athlete who competes in a game over the next 14 days will lose a season of eligibility if the court’s ruling is reversed. It counts.
Full Q&A on the transfer situation from the NCAA: pic.twitter.com/3eKu6LU4Ar
— Ross Dellenger (@RossDellenger) December 14, 2023
LSU hasn’t addressed its plan regarding Cook, but it’s hard to imagine he will play given the unclear circumstances.
His return would be welcome for a Tigers team that has struggled and sits at just 6-4 on the season. A two-year starter at Tulane, Cook averaged 19.9 points and 4.9 rebounds, leading the Green Wave.
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