Salt Lake City - In a recent development, West Virginia judge granted a 14-day temporary restraining order against the NCAA's ability to prevent players from multi-time transfers. This ruling has raised questions about the eligibility of transfer guard Deivon Smith as he awaits an appeal to a waiver petition that was denied on December 4.

The temporary order has created ambiguity regarding Smith's future eligibility and that of other athletes in similar situations. Should Smith choose to play during the 14-day period, there is a risk that the NCAA may retroactively rule his season ineligible, jeopardizing his appeal to play this season.

Initially, the NCAA stated that it would not stop athletes from playing during this period. However, they released a Q&A document stating that if a player awaiting a waiver played and the court's ruling was reversed, the athlete would lose a season of eligibility.

Given this uncertainty, the decision of whether or not Smith will play in the upcoming game against Utah Valley on Saturday remains undecided. Utah head coach Craig Smith emphasized the importance of gathering information and carefully considering the options before making a decision. The coach stated that, ultimately, it is Deivon Smith's career and he will discuss the matter with his family before reaching a conclusion.

The NCAA has provided further clarification on the matter, confirming that if an athlete competes in a game over the next 14 days and the court's ruling is reversed, they will indeed lose a season of eligibility. This information adds to the pressure faced by Smith and other players caught in this situation.

The Utah Utes coaching staff is aiming to finalize a decision on Deivon Smith's eligibility on Friday. However, they understand the need to consider both the short-term and long-term implications this decision may have on Smith's career. With so much at stake, the coach expressed the importance of taking the time necessary to carefully weigh the options before reaching a final verdict.

Smith, who has previously transferred from Georgia Tech and Mississippi State, is viewed as a valuable addition to the Utes roster, especially in terms of depth at the point guard position. However, his eligibility remains a crucial factor to consider, particularly with a significant portion of the season already behind them.

The transfer guard has two years of eligibility remaining and the possibility of using a redshirt season to preserve two full seasons. However, further complications arise as the NCAA may not hear appeals during the interim period due to the West Virginia court's restraining order. The holiday season may further delay the NCAA's consideration of any appeal, adding further uncertainty to Smith's situation.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his eligibility, Deivon Smith continues to practice with the team, displaying his commitment and dedication. Whether or not he will suit up for the upcoming game against Utah Valley on Saturday remains uncertain, with the decision likely to be made at the last minute for the promising guard.

As the Utah Utes await a final resolution, the situation underscores the need for clarity and consistency in NCAA transfer rules. The outcome of Smith's case may have repercussions for other players seeking eligibility through waivers and transfers, highlighting the need for a comprehensive review of the rules to ensure fairness and transparency.

In the coming days, the future of Deivon Smith's eligibility and that of other players affected by this ruling will become clearer. Until then, the basketball world waits anxiously to see how this high-stakes decision will unfold.