Arizona head coach Tommy Lloyd is preparing for the 2026-27 season without projected starting power forward RJ Godfrey. The 6-foot-7 player is currently ineligible to practice or compete following a stay request granted by the Georgia Court of Appeals. This legal development stems from an ongoing dispute between the NCAA and the class of 2022 regarding fifth-year eligibility rules.
Godfrey had committed to Arizona after securing a fifth year of eligibility through a lawsuit filed in Georgia. However, the recent appellate ruling pauses that status while the NCAA appeal process continues. Similar rulings have occurred in federal and state cases in Colorado, Ohio, and Tennessee.
Although the stay could be reversed or the NCAA appeal could fail, restoring Godfrey's eligibility, he is barred from participation for the time being.
The Wildcats must now determine a replacement for the forward who averaged 12.0 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game last season. Arizona originally planned to start Godfrey alongside Mo Krivas, Ivan Kharchenkov, Caleb Holt, and Derek Dixon. The most likely adjustment involves moving Kharchenkov to the power forward position and inserting freshman Cameron Holmes at the small forward spot.
Holmes, ranked No. 36 in the 2026 class by 247Sports, stands 6-foot-6 with a 6-foot-9 wingspan. His inclusion would reduce backcourt depth, potentially increasing the roles of Bryce James and JJ Mandaquit. Alternatively, the team could keep Kharchenkov at the three position and start an international forward.
