Mark Few Urges NCAA to Grant Eligibility to Gonzaga Transfers
Gonzaga coach Mark Few addressed the NCAA eligibility dispute involving transfers Xaivian Lee, Javon Bennett, Chauncey Wiggins, and another player after the Blue-White scrimmage. Few said the seniors seeking a fifth year should be allowed to play, describing them as graduates working toward master’s degrees. Davis Fogle scored a scrimmage-record 30 points in the event.
Few was introduced by ESPN’s Sean Farnham as a first-time Hall of Famer before the McCarthey Athletic Center crowd. In the annual Blue vs. White scrimmage, Davis Fogle set a Kraziness record with 30 points, while Isiah Harwell scored 17 on 6-of-8 shooting and Xaivian Lee added nine points, four assists and no turnovers.
Few also noted Nathan de Sousa’s experience, toughness and point-guard leadership, plus his competitive flair. He said Massamba Diop should help protect the rim, run the floor and use his feel and skill. Gonzaga’s next exhibition is Oct. 24 at Arkansas under John Calipari, with time and TV still to be announced.
The eligibility dispute could affect Gonzaga’s roster depth and the players’ chances to compete while pursuing graduate degrees. It may also create uncertainty for coaches and programs that rely on experienced transfers, and for fans expecting those athletes on the court. A resolution could influence how future players, schools and the NCAA interpret fifth-year and transfer eligibility, though the immediate impact remains limited to a small number of athletes.