NCAA releases statement on potential “5 in 5” eligibility

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - APRIL 06: The NCAA logo is shown at the NCAA's National Headquarters before the National Championship of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament between the Michigan Wolverines and the Connecticut Huskies at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 06, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images) | Getty Images We got some clarity on the future of college sports today. In a statement made on Monday afternoon, the Division 1 Board of Directors has directed the Division 1 Cabinet to advance the “5 in 5” concept, which would allow for up to five years of eligibility beginning the regular academic year after they turn 19 or graduate from high school, whichever comes first.

“The time is now to reform the period of eligibility rules to provide Division 1 student-athletes and our schools clear and consistent standards that align with current college athletes’ experiences,“ said Virginia Tech president and chair of the board, Tim Sands. See the full statement here: https://www. ncaa.

org/news/2026/4/27/media-center-di-board-of-directors-directs-cabinet-to-advance-age-based-eligibility-rules. aspx The main question for Villanova fans is “how does this affect the four-year seniors for the 2026-27 season? ” Well, fortunately/unfortunately, the board has “expressed support” to maintain the existing rules for student-athletes who completed (or will complete) their eligibility by the spring of 2026.

This means that Duke Brennan, for instance, will not be eligible to come back to for a fifth season. The board wants this new rule to be implemented for the 2026-27 season and beyond. There will likely be some lawsuits filed, so there is always potential for some exceptions to be made.