The NCAA has some bad news for Indiana fans, as sources have reported that Anthony Leal won’t be returning next year after his appeal for an extra year of eligibility was denied. Leal argued that he had a red shirt year for the 2022-2023 season after playing only 11 games due to his injuries.
Jeff Rabjohns, a journalist covering Indiana, recently reported that the NCAA has denied his request, as the organization does not grant medical redshirts to players who played in the latter half of a season, even if they missed a large portion of that season due to injury.
NCAA sources: Indiana guard Anthony Leal’s appeal for an extra year of eligibility has been denied. #iubb https://t.co/Fgb1bhi3iR
— Jeff Rabjohns (@JeffRabjohns) July 2, 2025
With his petition to play for another year denied, hoops fans were quick to comment on the situation and criticized him for trying to come back, even though he was not eligible anymore.
“Go get a job buddy” said one X user.
“Good. Dirty pos 24 year old is out of COLLEGE basketball.” another user replied.
“Good. Time to move on. Best of luck to Leal. God bless you and thank you for your contributions for the IU basketball program” noted another commenter.
However, there were some who were sympathetic to Leal, and had positive things to say.
“Relax dudes. Leal is a good kid who gave it a shot and it didn’t work out for him. He’ll do fine in life” one believer pointed out.
“Tough break for Leal and IU. The NCAA stays strict with these waivers. @Joshuastock32 had a point—markets would’ve loved his leadership, but rules are rules. Next man up. #iubb” another person said.
“Would have loved for him to be able to collect a deserved bag for another year but excited that new guys will get those minutes. Sad because he’s such a selfless player but it’s for the best. Would love him as a GA however!!” said another user.
There Were Prior Signs That Anthony Leal’s Petition Would Not Be Granted
Meanwhile, as Anthony Leal and Indiana were awaiting the decision from the NCAA, there were indications that it was already heading south.
A day before the decision was announced, Leal posted on X that he was selling his team-issued gear. Furthermore, Indiana kept a spot open just in case, but still brought in freshman Serbian guard Aleksa Ristic to be part of next season’s team.
It remains to be seen if Leal will have a future in the sport of basketball after this decision. As things stand, he received his Master’s degree from the Kelley School of Business last May.
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