BUFFALO, N.Y. — JJ Starling, a 6-foot-4 guard known for his impressive high school career, has officially signed with the University at Buffalo for the upcoming college basketball season. Starling, who spent the last four years playing for Notre Dame and Syracuse, was a highly regarded five-star recruit hailing from the Central New York area.
Starling's eligibility for a fifth season of college basketball remains in limbo. He is part of a group of athletes who have secured a temporary restraining order from a California judge, allowing them to compete under new NCAA regulations that permit players to participate for five seasons within a five-year timeframe. This ruling is significant as it could reshape the landscape for student-athletes navigating their college careers.
However, the NCAA, along with several conferences, contends that this new rule does not extend to athletes from the high school graduating class of 2022 who have already completed four seasons. A preliminary injunction has granted Starling and his fellow athletes temporary eligibility, but the final decision will hinge on a hearing set to occur between September 29 and December 3.
During his last season at Syracuse, Starling averaged 10.9 points per game while shooting 42%, marking the lowest production of his college career. This decline follows a more robust performance the previous year, where he averaged 17.8 points, showcasing his potential as a dynamic scorer.
Starling's journey in basketball began with significant accolades, including being named to the McDonald's All-America team in 2022. He was recognized as one of the top 50 prospects in the nation, with ESPN ranking him as high as 27th. His freshman year at Notre Dame was also noteworthy, as he earned a spot on the ACC All-Freshman team, highlighting his immediate impact in collegiate basketball.
As Starling transitions to Buffalo, he aims to revitalize his career and contribute significantly to the team's success. The University at Buffalo will be looking to leverage his skills and experience, hoping that he can recapture the form that made him a sought-after recruit. The upcoming season promises to be pivotal not only for Starling but also for the Buffalo basketball program as they navigate the challenges of NCAA regulations and strive for a successful campaign.
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