The Wisconsin vs. Xavier Lucas drama may just be beginning even though it's now a month old as Wisconsin is ready to publicly enter into the discussion. They have finally released a statement about why they have let other players leave in the portal but would not enter Lucas' name for transfer. There have been many reports, but the Wisconsin Athletics department has finally revealed exactly why there was a problem with Lucas leaving.
Wisconsin releases a statement regarding the departure of Xavier Lucas to Miami. "We have credible information indicating impermissible contact between Xavier and University of Miami football program personnel prior to Xavier’s request to enter the transfer portal." Wisconsin… pic.twitter.com/2Px0l1vyVn
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) January 18, 2025
Wisconsin states that Xavier Lucas has signed an agreement with the Badgers which, "remains in effect and enforceable."
There is a lot in this letter, and you will want to read all of it if you want to finally see what Wisconsin says, but there are a few important parts to what they state in the release. The first is that they are disappointed with his unenrollment, referencing the decision Lucas and his lawyer made to skirt around the transfer portal. The second is this paragraph:
"On December 2, 2024, Xavier and Wisconsin Athletics entered into a binding two-year NIL agreement reflecting his strong commitment to continuing with the Wisconsin football program. We understand that he also executed a separate agreement with the Varsity Collective. His agreement with Wisconsin Athletics included substantial financial compensation for Xavier. Under the terms of the agreement between Xavier and Wisconsin Athletics, it remains in effect and enforceable."Wisconsin Athletics
This validates the reports that many have suspected and others with more knowledge of the situation have reported. That there was an agreement, and it wasn't an old agreement. Lucas signed this just days before entering his name in the portal. However, what Wisconsin said next is the most cause for a "this isn't over yet" stance is:
"We have credible information indicating impermissible contact between Xavier and University of Miami football program personnel prior to Xavier’s request to enter the transfer portal. Direct interference with another institution’s committed player and contractual interests is prohibited by NCAA tampering rules and the law."Wisconsin Athletics
This statement alone indicates that Wisconsin is not done with the fight and will continue to pursue the avenues required next to help bring more permanent change to college athletics. It goes on to state: "The system cannot work without an operational model that both establishes and enforces agreed-upon rules and regulations, and contractual terms that are binding on both institutions and student-athletes." And it concludes with the reality that they will continue to explore all options in the future.
I'm not sure what the win is here, but if it helps provide a system in the future where there are rules and contracts are real, then it will be helpful down the road. Wisconsin may end up being the reluctant trailblazer for the future of NIL and pay-for-play college athletics.