Tre White will be returning to the University of Kansas for the 2026-27 basketball season, as confirmed by the Kansas basketball social media team on Friday. His return follows weeks of speculation about his eligibility for an additional year of college basketball. White was part of a lawsuit filed alongside 89 other athletes against the NCAA, seeking the ability to play another year under a new rule they believed should apply to them. A circuit court judge ruled in their favor earlier this week, issuing a preliminary injunction and a temporary restraining order (TRO) that currently prevents the NCAA from enforcing its eligibility restrictions for the 90 plaintiffs.
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Head coach Bill Self commented on White's return, stating, “Tre received a TRO and is eligible to come to campus and practice, and hopefully play in games. He’s had a great offseason and performed well with the Miami (Heat) and had a very successful summer league. When the opportunity presented itself to go back to college, he wanted to come back to KU, and we welcomed that. He pursued this on his own, which shows he wants to be here.” Self also noted White's significant impact on the team, highlighting his performance from the previous season where he averaged 14 points and seven rebounds in a challenging league.
White's return is crucial for the Jayhawks, especially considering the team had limited experience with only two other players, Paul Mbiya and Kohl Rosario, returning from last year's roster. The current team includes many sophomores and freshmen, making White's experience vital for their prospects in the coming season. His proficiency in 3-point shooting, with a 40.3% accuracy last season, will also enhance Kansas's offensive capabilities.
However, uncertainty surrounds White's eligibility to participate in games this season. Although the TRO grants him immediate eligibility until the trial occurs, no date has been set for the trial. If the lawsuit is ultimately dropped and White plays, but the plaintiffs lose their case, Kansas may face repercussions including forfeiting wins for fielding an ineligible player. For now, White's participation may be limited to practices, where he can still provide significant assistance and guidance to younger teammates like Tyran Stokes, who are expected to lead the team this season.