Kansas Player Melvin Council Jr. Granted Injunction to Play Seventh Season

By the Editorial Team · Monday, October 5, 2026

Melvin Council Jr. has been granted a preliminary injunction to compete in a seventh collegiate basketball season, allowing him to return to the University of Kansas men’s basketball team. This court decision underscores ongoing debates over player eligibility extensions and will enable Council to resume practicing immediately under head coach Bill Self.

Melvin Council Jr. has been granted a preliminary injunction by a New York state court allowing him to compete in a seventh collegiate basketball season, enabling his return to the University of Kansas men’s basketball team. The 24-year-old point guard, who started for the Jayhawks last season, is expected to resume practicing immediately, according to head coach Bill Self.

Council posted averages of 12.7 points, five rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game during his previous season with Kansas, playing a key role in the team’s campaign. The court ruling comes amid ongoing discussions surrounding eligibility extensions for college athletes.

Meanwhile, the UCLA women’s basketball program announced that sophomore guard Lena Bilic will miss the upcoming season after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear. The Croatian-born player appeared in 33 games last season, contributing 3.0 points and 1.4 rebounds per contest as the Bruins captured the national championship.

The developments highlight the evolving landscape of college basketball, where eligibility issues and injuries continue to impact team rosters ahead of the new season.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.