The NCAA's new "5-in-5" eligibility model and the legal challenges against it have created inconsistent roster rules across college basketball as the season begins. The model allows athletes five seasons of competition within five years but applies only to the high school class of 2023 and later, leaving class of 2022 players outside the framework and prompting lawsuits in multiple states.
At UNLV, the disparity is evident: Runnin' Rebels guard AJ Storr, a transfer from Ole Miss, remains ineligible while awaiting a court decision in Texas. Meanwhile, Lady Rebels guard Marley Washenitz, an Arizona State transfer, has been cleared to play by a California judge in the Glancey v. NCAA case. Washenitz averaged 7.9 points and 3.7 rebounds last season and is available for Monday's opener.
Runnin' Rebels coach Josh Pastner said consistency is essential for the integrity of the game. "For the integrity of the game, two things have to be an even playing field," Pastner said. "The rules of the game — everyone has got to be on the same rules — and two, everyone has got to be in the same eligibility." He noted UNLV has already faced opponents who gained eligibility through court rulings, including BYU's Jaxon Kohler, who scored 19 points against the Rebels after being cleared days before the exhibition.
Pastner also questioned the eligibility of Kansas forward Trey Kaufman-Renn, who was granted an injunction to play and is scheduled to face UNLV on Nov. 17. Pastner said Kaufman-Renn should not be eligible after being selected in the NBA draft and playing in the NBA Summer League. Lady Rebels coach Lindy La Rocque expressed gratitude that Washenitz is available but acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the situation.
Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal
Original reporting: Las Vegas Review-Journal →
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