RJ Luis Jr., a former St. John's standout who had brief stints with the Utah Jazz and Boston Celtics, has been cleared by a court to practice and potentially play for Louisiana State University (LSU) this season. The East Baton Rouge Parish District Court judge Ronald R. Johnson granted the player's request for a preliminary injunction against the NCAA on Monday evening.
Luis, who was under contract with two NBA clubs but never played in an official NBA game, can now join LSU coach Will Wade's team. The ruling followed a five-hour hearing where Luis's legal team argued for his eligibility.
Luis's attorneys, Tony Clayton and Elliot Abrams, stated that the decision sets a precedent, allowing Luis to practice and play while the legal process continues. They emphasized that the NCAA has previously granted exceptions for international professional players to join college programs, arguing that American players should have similar opportunities.
According to Luis's legal team, he had not played in the NBA or even for the Celtics' G League affiliate due to injury, possessing a less extensive professional basketball resume than some international recruits currently playing college ball. They highlighted that Luis never played a professional game.
The NCAA's attorney, Taylor Askew, countered that Luis's situation was distinct because he chose to leave college for the NBA. Askew cited the case of Alabama's Charles Bediako, who briefly played for the Crimson Tide after obtaining a temporary restraining order, but was ultimately ruled ineligible. Askew argued that Luis's decision to leave college had consequences.
Judge Johnson stated during his ruling that, in his view, Luis did not actually play professional basketball. The court also raised questions about whether Luis was properly advised of his options when he departed from college.
The timeline for further legal proceedings remains unclear, with Luis's attorneys indicating that significant discovery is still required.