RJ Luis Jr. Cleared to Join LSU Basketball Team After Court Ruling

RJ Luis Jr., a former standout at St. John's, has been granted permission to practice with the LSU basketball team following a court ruling. The East Baton Rouge Parish District Court, presided over by Judge Ronald R. Johnson, ruled in favor of Luis after a five-hour hearing, allowing him to potentially participate in this season's games.

Luis, who had brief contracts with the Utah Jazz and Boston Celtics without appearing in an NBA game, expressed his relief and gratitude after the ruling, sharing a moment with LSU coach Will Wade. His legal team argued that the NCAA's stance on his eligibility was unjust, especially since he had not played at a professional level and had been sidelined by injury during his time with the Celtics' G League affiliate.

The court's decision came after Luis's attorneys highlighted that the NCAA had previously allowed international players to join college programs despite their professional backgrounds. They contended that Luis should receive similar consideration given his unique circumstances.

NCAA attorney Taylor Askew countered, stating that Luis's choice to leave college for the NBA made his situation distinct from those of international players. He referenced a comparable case involving Alabama's Charles Bediako, who faced similar eligibility issues last season.

Judge Johnson noted that, in his view, Luis had not truly played professional basketball, suggesting that the advice he received when leaving college was a significant factor in the ruling. This decision marks a pivotal moment for Luis as he prepares to join the Tigers and continue his basketball career.