Big East Player of the Year RJ Luis Commits to LSU Amid Eligibility Uncertainty
RJ Luis, the standout guard who earned 2025 Big East Player of the Year honors at St. John's, has committed to join the LSU Tigers men's basketball program, according to multiple sources. However, his return to college basketball is clouded by uncertainty regarding his eligibility after spending the past season on two-way contracts in the NBA.
Luis made headlines during the 2024-25 season, leading St. John's with his dynamic play and earning the conference's highest individual honor. His performance drew the attention of NBA teams, and he subsequently spent the 2025-26 season on two-way contracts, balancing time between the league and its developmental affiliate.
- Big East Player of the Year (2025): Recognized as the conference's top talent for St. John's
- NBA Two-Way Contracts: Spent the 2025-26 season moving between the NBA and G League
- LSU Commitment: Announced intent to play for the LSU Tigers for the upcoming season
While the addition of Luis would provide a major boost to the Tigers' backcourt, his eligibility is not assured. NCAA rules regarding professional contracts and collegiate eligibility are stringent, particularly for athletes who have participated in NBA games or received compensation above a certain threshold.
Details on Luis's specific case have not been publicly disclosed. The NCAA will review his status to determine whether his time under two-way contracts—and any participation in NBA or G League games—affects his amateur status and ability to compete at the college level.
If cleared, Luis would immediately become one of the most high-profile transfers in the country, adding scoring and playmaking to LSU's roster. His experience at St. John's, where he averaged impressive numbers en route to his Player of the Year award, positions him as a potential difference-maker in the SEC race.
For now, LSU and college basketball fans await the NCAA's ruling, which will determine whether one of the Big East's recent stars can take the court in Baton Rouge next season.