Florida State Forward Alex Steen Filed Eligibility Lawsuit
The athlete has sued the NCAA for an additional season of play while continuing to practice with his team.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Basketball
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Florida State forward Alex Steen has filed a lawsuit against the NCAA to secure an additional year of eligibility. Although a court recently denied his request for a temporary restraining order, he continues to practice with the team.
Why it matters
The legal challenge highlights a dispute involving class of 2022 athletes who contend they were unfairly excluded from COVID-19 eligibility expansions and the newer 5-in-5 rule. This conflict underscores the ongoing tension between student-athlete expectations and established NCAA participation policies.
The NCAA 5-in-5 rule limits participation to 5 seasons for athletes in the class of 2023 and later. Steen remains in limbo as he seeks an exception to this policy through the court system.
The players
Alex Steen
He is a forward for the Florida State men's basketball team who is seeking an additional year of athletic eligibility.
NCAA
This is the governing body that manages college athletics and enforces rules regarding student-athlete participation and eligibility.
Florida State
This university is the home of the men's basketball program and serves as the current academic institution for Alex Steen.
The details
Steen, who had previously planned to launch a professional basketball career in Serbia, remains a student at Florida State while his lawsuit proceeds. He is permitted to participate in team practices under current NCAA rules while his eligibility remains in flux.
Timeline
August 2026: Steen filed a lawsuit against the NCAA.
September 21, 2026: Official start of Florida State basketball practice.
November 2, 2026: Florida State plays first game against FAMU.
Season Trajectory
This ongoing litigation creates uncertainty for Florida State's frontcourt depth throughout the upcoming basketball season. The outcome of the appeal will determine whether Steen can participate in competitive play beyond his current status.
Florida State fans should note that Steen is cleared to practice, meaning he remains integrated into team drills and tactical preparation. His participation in the November 2 season opener remains dependent on the success of his forthcoming legal appeal.
The takeaway
Student-athletes caught in the transition between different eligibility eras continue to seek judicial remedies when NCAA policies exclude them. Players in similar situations often face prolonged uncertainty regarding their professional prospects while navigating these administrative hurdles.
Further reading
For more news on the team, visit the Basketball section.
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Should college athletes receive extra eligibility if their career is impacted by shifting NCAA rules?
