Oakland University senior guard Brody Robinson is taking his eligibility fight to court, filing a lawsuit against the NCAA on Friday that asks a judge to grant him an extra season of Division I basketball. His legal team is seeking emergency relief in the form of a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction so he can keep playing while the case winds its way through the system.
According to The Detroit News, the complaint, filed in Oakland County Circuit Court, argues Robinson's single junior-college season should not count against his NCAA eligibility clock and asks for a quick decision ahead of the spring transfer window. The filing states Robinson is 22 and estimates that another year on the court could be worth $500,000 or more in name, image and likeness compensation. The lawsuit lists attorney David Russell of Foster, Smith, Collins & Smith as part of Robinson's legal team.
On the floor, Robinson has been central to Oakland's success. Oakland University Athletics notes that he started every game this season, surpassed 500 points and 200 assists, and earned NABC All‑District recognition after ranking among the Horizon League leaders in assists.
Legal claims and precedent
The lawsuit includes a claim under the Michigan Antitrust Reform Act, a state law that addresses unfair restraints on trade. The statute is published by the Michigan Legislature. Robinson's attorneys also highlight recent court decisions that have put NCAA eligibility rules under increased scrutiny, including the Diego Pavia case, reported by the Associated Press.
Timing and stakes
Robinson's complaint presses for a fast ruling so he can decide his next move before the NCAA spring transfer portal opens April 7 and closes April 21, as noted by The Detroit News. His lawyers argue that another year of eligibility would give him an additional season on the court and a significant chance to pursue further NIL opportunities.
Oakland University is not named as a party in the suit, and school officials, including head coach Greg Kampe, have not provided public comment. The NCAA also has not yet responded to media requests. The case now joins a growing list of legal challenges to NCAA eligibility rules and could draw close attention if the court moves as quickly as Robinson is hoping.
