Former G League pro granted NCAA eligibility in landmark ruling

Darlan’s path is unique, as the 21-year-old guard from the Central African Republic trained at the NBA Academy Africa before joining G League Ignite in 2023. After Ignite folded, he split the 2024-25 season between the Rip City Remix, Portland’s affiliate, and the Delaware Blue Coats, Philadelphia’s affiliate.

With Delaware, he averaged 25.7 minutes over 29 games, posting 10.9 points, six rebounds, two assists, 1.1 steals and 1.2 blocks per game. He shot 37.7 percent from three on 3.7 attempts, showcasing versatility with his 6-foot-8 frame and defensive upside. 

Darlan declared for the 2025 NBA Draft but later withdrew, preserving his collegiate eligibility and leaving open the option to declare again in 2026.

Historically, the NCAA has drawn a strict line between amateur and professional athletes. Players who signed professional contracts in the United States typically forfeited their chance to compete in college. Darlan’s case breaks that mold, granting him two years of eligibility beginning this season.

For Santa Clara, a program that has produced NBA talent ranging from Steve Nash to recent first-round picks Jalen Williams and Brandin Podziemski, Darlan represents an immediate boost. His professional seasoning and physical tools could quickly raise the Broncos’ profile in the West Coast Conference.

Santa Clara finished last season 21-13 overall and 12-6 in conference play, placing fourth in the standings under head coach Herb Sendek. For Darlan, the move provides a fresh stage to showcase his talent while continuing his development outside the NBA spotlight.

The wider implications, however, may be even more significant. The ruling highlights the NCAA’s increasingly flexible stance on amateurism in an era defined by NIL rights and mounting legal challenges. If one former G League player can regain eligibility, others who took a professional detour may follow.

Still, whether this becomes precedent or remains a one-off tied to Darlan’s age, background and circumstances is unclear. Compliance offices across the country will be watching closely, and rival programs could soon test the NCAA’s willingness to extend similar waivers.

For now, Santa Clara has secured a remarkable addition, and college basketball has taken a historic step toward aligning its historically rigid amateur model with the realities of modern player development.