Supreme Court Rejects NCAA Appeal in Chambliss Case
The Mississippi Supreme Court declined the NCAA’s request to immediately appeal a lower-court ruling in the Trinidad Chambliss eligibility dispute. The order keeps the matter in chancery court for further proceedings.
The court issued its decision on March 27, 2026. The ruling does not resolve the underlying merits.
Background of the dispute
The conflict began after the NCAA denied Chambliss a sixth year of eligibility. That denial came on Feb. 4, 2026, and concerned a medical hardship waiver tied to the 2022 season at Ferris State University.
Chambliss said respiratory illness and chronic tonsillitis forced him to miss the 2022 season. The NCAA said the documentation was insufficient and hinted at competitive factors influencing its decision.
Lower-court injunction and representation
Chambliss sued in Mississippi, with attorney Tom Mars representing him. On Feb. 12, Judge Robert Whitwell issued a preliminary injunction permitting Chambliss to play in 2026 while litigation continues.
Judge Whitwell criticized the NCAA’s decision as relying on “pure semantics.” The injunction remains in effect as the trial court proceeds.
NCAA action and appellate posture
The NCAA sought an interlocutory appeal to move review to the state Supreme Court before a final judgment. Chambliss opposed that request, and the high court refused to allow immediate appeal.
Separately, the NCAA is appealing the preliminary injunction. But the Supreme Court’s denial prevents immediate review of the lower-court ruling.
Current status and next steps
Filmogaz.com reports the Supreme Court rejected the NCAA appeal request in the Chambliss case. The case will continue in chancery court for full adjudication.
Chambliss remains eligible to play for now. The final outcome will depend on the trial court’s findings and any future appeals.
- Key dates: NCAA denial — Feb. 4, 2026.
- Preliminary injunction granted — Feb. 12, 2026, by Judge Robert Whitwell.
- Mississippi Supreme Court action — March 27, 2026.
- Legal venue: Chancery court in Mississippi.
