At least two of the nation’s best freshman are still in eligibility limbo, as Kansas big man Cheick Diallo and Ohio State wing Mickey Mitchell are waiting to get cleared by the NCAA to play this season.
Mitchell’s issue with the NCAA was not previously known publicly.
“Freshman forward Mickey Mitchell has not been cleared to compete for the Ohio State men’s basketball team by the NCAA Eligibility Center,” AD Geno Smith said in a statement. “He is eligible to practice but not compete until the issue is resolved.”
Mitchell is a four-star recruit that played some quarterback in high school. He’s a 6-foot-6 wing with tremendous vision and passing ability, and before he suffered knee and back injuries he was considered a top ten prospect in the class.
The cause for Mitchell’s NCAA issues is not known.
Diallo, on the other hand, is a top ten prospect in the class and it is known why he’s yet to be cleared to play. A native of Mali, Diallo spent three seasons playing his high school ball at Our Savior New American on Long Island, and that school is currently being investigated by the NCAA. Diallo is cleared to practice but cannot compete in competitive games.
Head coach Bill Self told CBSSports.com that they will hold Diallo out of tomorrow’s exhibition against Pittsburg State is the 6-foot-10 forward is not cleared.