European basketball standout Luka Bogavac still hasn’t been cleared by the NCAA, and frustration is growing within the North Carolina Tar Heels program.
It’s been more than two months since the talented shooting guard from Europe arrived in Chapel Hill to begin his college basketball journey — but his debut remains on hold.
Even though Bogavac officially committed to UNC back in May and is fully enrolled as a student, he still hasn’t been cleared to play. What makes the situation even more puzzling is that several other international prospects at schools like Duke and Oregon have already received their eligibility approvals.
For Tar Heel fans, the delay has become exasperating. Bogavac was expected to be one of the team’s most exciting newcomers, yet he remains sidelined without any clear explanation.
Typically, international recruits who’ve played professionally overseas must go through a detailed review process to ensure they’re eligible to compete at the amateur (college) level. Players can enroll as students while awaiting clearance, but they can’t participate in games — even exhibitions — until approved by the university and the NCAA.
While Bogavac’s visa was reportedly approved several weeks ago, the hold-up now appears to be tied to his final eligibility certification. What’s even more confusing is that most programs begin this process well before their recruits arrive on campus — but somehow, Bogavac’s case is still unresolved.
In short: Bogavac has committed to UNC, is living in Chapel Hill, is attending classes, has cleared his visa, and has been deemed eligible by the NCAA — yet he still can’t take the court for the Tar Heels.
It’s an unprecedented and baffling situation that’s dragged on far longer than anyone expected.
The No. 25 Tar Heels open their season on Monday, November 3, against Central Arkansas, followed by a high-profile matchup against No. 19 Kansas just four days later. Whether Luka Bogavac will finally be cleared to suit up remains anyone’s guess.
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