Former Syracuse guard J.J. Starling has committed to Buffalo as he continues pursuing a fifth season of college basketball eligibility, according to Jon Rothstein of CBS Sports.
Starling, a Baldwinsville native, is seeking a fifth year after the NCAA changed its eligibility rules this summer to allow members of the 2022 recruiting class to compete for an additional season. His name is among those included in a lawsuit filed in California seeking that extra year.
A Colorado judge issued a preliminary injunction July 31 that would have allowed athletes from the 2022 class to receive a fifth season. The NCAA later halted the order in August, leading to continued legal action surrounding the eligibility issue.
Starling spent three seasons at Syracuse after transferring from Notre Dame, where he played his freshman season. During his three years with the Orange, he averaged 13.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game.
His Syracuse career coincided with Adrian Autry’s three seasons as head coach. Starling initially emerged as one of the program’s key perimeter players after arriving from Notre Dame and remained a significant part of the rotation throughout his time with the Orange.
Following the 2025-26 season, however, Starling appeared to have reached the end of his college career. Syracuse dismissed Autry in March, and Starling’s eligibility appeared to have expired under the existing rules.
The possibility of another season has now opened a new chapter for the former Syracuse standout. By committing to Buffalo, Starling will remain in Western New York if he receives approval for the additional year.
The Bulls are coming off a 17-15 season and would add a veteran guard with extensive high-major experience if Starling is cleared to compete.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.