Kansas Guard David Coit Looks to Extend Stay, Revels in NCAA’s Extra Year Waiver
Kansas guard David Coit (8) and Kansas forward KJ Adams Jr. (24) celebrate after a three by Coit and a timeout by UCF during the second half on Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025 at Allen Fieldhouse. Photo by Nick Krug
Following the NCAA’s recent waiver that allows more players an additional year of college eligibility, Kansas guard David Coit has expressed his enthusiasm for returning to the team for the 2025-26 season. This decision comes as a blessing for Coit, who sought and received an extra year to hone his skills and pursue further academic goals.
Coit’s Journey and Decision
Coit, originally from Columbus, New Jersey, had a path that included playing one year at Atlantic Cape Community College before transferring to Northern Illinois for two seasons. He then joined the Kansas Jayhawks in 2021. The time spent at Atlantic Cape is pivotal, as it allowed Coit to secure an extra year of eligibility, allowing him to extend his college basketball career beyond the traditional four-year limit.
This additional year is particularly significant for Coit, given his unique eligibility situation. His journey began at a junior college, a path often overlooked when determining NCAA eligibility. With the NCAA’s recent guidance, Coit’s situation became eligible for the blanket waiver, ensuring he could participate in one more season of college basketball.
The Impact of NCAA’s Waiver
The NCAA’s decision to offer a blanket waiver to players with similar experiences to Coit’s was sparked by the high-profile case of Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia. Pavia successfully argued that counting his time at a junior college against his four-year eligibility would limit his future opportunities, particularly in the highly competitive NFL draft.
The waiver has since been the subject of various legal proceedings and considerations, affecting numerous players across different sports. Coit stands out as a clear example of a player benefiting from this decision, having played at a junior college before transitioning to a Division I program.
Benefits of an Extra Year
For Coit, the additional year of college basketball represents both a professional and personal opportunity. He expressed his gratitude for the extended eligibility, stating, “I think it’s a blessing. It’s going to be fun, but I’ve got to be where my feet are, focus on one day at a time, and use that extra year to my advantage, get my master’s and different things like that.”
Off the court, Coit aims to pursue a master’s degree, adding an academic dimension to his NCAA experience. On the court, he looks to contribute more, particularly on the defensive end, where he has excelled despite a recent shooting slump.
Performance and Role
As a reliable bench player, Coit has proven his value to the Jayhawks this season. He has played in every game, averaging 15 minutes per contest with 4.5 points and 37.1% shooting from beyond the arc. His defensive prowess has been particularly noteworthy, giving the team a significant boost despite his offensive struggles in recent months.
During his interview, Coit acknowledged the challenges he faced during his shooting slump but remained optimistic about his role on the team. His decision to return illustrates his commitment to the team and his potential to develop further.
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Written By Henry Greenstein
As the NCAA continues to navigate the complexities of player eligibility, David Coit’s story illustrates the positive impact of recent-rule changes. Coit’s return to Kansas underlines the importance of granting players like him the opportunity to make the most of their college basketball careers. Fans and fellow players alike are eager to see what the future holds as Coit prepares to embark on another season with the Jayhawks.
What do you think about David Coit’s decision to return to Kansas for another year? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
