College basketball has a problem with eligibility after a recent string of lawsuits deemed fifth-year extensions for certain players, and Dan Hurley doesn’t like it.
The Connecticut Huskies coach is very concerned with the sport’s recent drama. Meanwhile, NIL and the transfer portal aren’t the only concerns after a various players from the class of 2022 started contemplating a return.
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Hurley is one of the most outspoken coaches in college basketball on a variety of matters. However, he’s now challenging other coaches to help protect the sport with his latest comments.
“At some point, you’ve got to care about the sport,” Hurley told reporters Friday. “Especially if the sport has given you a lot. Doing things to hurt the sport so that you can win a little bit more, you’ve got to look in the mirror a little on that.”
Hurley’s anger stems from a recent court order that gives schools a second chance at recruiting ahead of the 2026-27 season. It’s understandable why the players would want to continue to play, but the iconic coach is now asking other coaches to stand up for the sport.
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Can Hurley save college basketball?
NCAA Basketball: Final Four National Championship-Connecticut at Michigan
Connecticut Huskies head coach Dan Hurley against Michigan Wolverines in the 2026 NCAA Tournament. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
The UConn coach remains adamant about trying to “save” the sport. He even took to social media to in July to ask someone to step in and fix the “complete s*** show.”
College sports are at a point where rules are broken regularly, which is why Hurley’s words aren’t extreme. It seems to be the new norm, which allows players and schools to essentially do as they please.
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“The art of what we do has been cheapened a little bit,” Hurley suggests. “You can put together teams that can compete and not have to identify and develop young talent.”
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Judge Charlotte Sweeney’s recent ruling is sparking significant debate about fifth-year eligibility. However, her court order actually came after the NCAA’s own implementation of letting players return for a fifth season.
Players have five years of play starting when they turn 19 or after enrolling in classes. The situation is far from over, but it’s evident that Hurley will continue to speak his mind along the way.
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