The University of Wisconsin has issued a statement expressing disappointment over defensive back Xavier Lucas’s decision to withdraw from the institution and enroll at the University of Miami without officially entering the NCAA transfer portal. Wisconsin alleges that Lucas’s actions violate a binding two-year Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) agreement he signed with the university in December 2024, which included substantial financial compensation.
According to Wisconsin, there is credible information indicating impermissible contact between Lucas and Miami’s football program personnel prior to his request to enter the transfer portal, suggesting potential tampering. The university emphasized that such direct interference with another institution’s committed player and contractual interests is prohibited by NCAA tampering rules and applicable laws.
In response to the situation, the Big Ten Conference released a statement supporting Wisconsin’s position, stating that it is critical for agreed-upon obligations to be respected, honored, and enforced. The conference described the information suggesting tampering and contract interference by Miami as “very troubling” and highlighted the need for substantive governance reform in college athletics.
Lucas’s attorney, Darren Heitner, contends that the NIL agreement was contingent upon the approval of the House settlement, which has yet to receive final approval, and upon Lucas attending classes no later than spring 2025. Heitner asserts that Lucas has unenrolled from Wisconsin and has not received any payments under the agreement, and therefore owes no reimbursement to the institution. He also argues that Wisconsin violated NCAA bylaws by not entering Lucas into the transfer portal within two business days of his request.
This case could set a significant precedent in the enforcement of NIL agreements and transfer protocols within college athletics. Wisconsin has stated that it will evaluate all options going forward to determine the appropriate course of action, indicating potential legal proceedings.
