The ACC is following the lead of the Big Ten and SEC in putting a curb on coaches from adding players to their rosters who have declared for NFL, NBA or WNBA drafts or signed pro contracts.
The conference’s board of directors voted unanimously on Thursday to direct ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips to throw the book at would-be Lane Kiffins and Will Wades among the coaching ranks.
“The Board’s action reflects the ACC’s commitment to preserving college sports as an opportunity for college students that is clearly distinct from professional sports, protecting opportunities for current and future student-athletes, and promoting competitive equity. As the eligibility landscape continues to evolve, the ACC will remain steadfast in its support for standards that are consistent with the educational mission of college athletics,” the conference reported in a release issued on Thursday.
Under the resolution, an ACC member institution is not permitted to include an individual on its football or men’s or women’s basketball roster when that individual has:
- Previously declared for an NFL, NBA, or WNBA draft, and did not appropriately withdraw consistent with NCAA requirements to retain eligibility.
- Signed a contract with the NFL (or other professional football league), NBA/G-League, or WNBA (or affiliate) or any team that is a member of any such league. For the NBA Summer League, a contract means an Exhibit 10, a two-way contract, or any agreement providing for compensation beyond expenses and a per diem.
- Been listed on any roster for an NFL (or other professional football league), NBA/G-League, or WNBA (or affiliate) team.
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Chris Graham
