Ohio State's Puff Johnson Granted Temporary Eligibility

Restraining order allows player to suit up this season despite NCAA concerns

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Puff Johnson, a player for the Ohio State Buckeyes men's basketball team, has been granted a temporary restraining order against the NCAA that will allow him to play this season. The order comes despite ongoing eligibility concerns from the NCAA regarding Johnson's status.

Why it matters

Johnson's eligibility has been a point of contention, with the NCAA questioning certain aspects of his background and recruitment. The temporary restraining order allows him to suit up and compete while the larger issues are sorted out, providing a boost to Ohio State's roster as they aim to contend in the Big Ten.

The details

The restraining order was issued by a judge in Columbus, Ohio, where Ohio State's campus is located. It will enable Johnson to participate in games and practices with the Buckeyes while the NCAA continues to review his case. The specifics of the NCAA's concerns about Johnson's eligibility have not been made public.

  • The restraining order was issued on February 13, 2026.

The players

Puff Johnson

A player for the Ohio State Buckeyes men's basketball team whose eligibility has been in question by the NCAA.

Ohio State Buckeyes

The men's basketball team that Puff Johnson plays for, based in Columbus, Ohio.

NCAA

The governing body of college athletics that has been reviewing Puff Johnson's eligibility status.

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What they’re saying

“We're pleased that Puff will be able to suit up and compete for us this season while his eligibility status is being reviewed.”

— Chris Holtmann, Head Coach, Ohio State Buckeyes

What’s next

The NCAA is expected to continue its review of Puff Johnson's eligibility status, with a final determination potentially coming later in the season.

The takeaway

This temporary restraining order allows Ohio State to benefit from Johnson's talents on the court while the larger eligibility questions are sorted out, providing a boost to their roster as they aim to compete in the Big Ten conference.