Former UCLA Guard Amari Bailey Pursues College Return, Visits Grand Canyon University
PHOENIX, AZ – Former UCLA standout Amari Bailey is taking a significant step in his attempt to become the first NBA player to return to college basketball. Bailey has scheduled an official visit to Grand Canyon University, beginning Wednesday, February 10, 2026, sources confirmed to ESPN.
Bailey, 21, was drafted by the Charlotte Hornets in 2023 and appeared in 10 NBA games during the 2023-2024 season. He played on a two-way contract before seeking a return to the collegiate level for the 2026-27 season.
Grand Canyon aggressively pitched its vision to Bailey and will host him during their game against New Mexico, according to reports. The visit will include a tour of the campus and meetings with the coaching staff.
However, Bailey’s path back to college basketball is not straightforward. The NCAA has informed ESPN that it will not grant him eligibility due to his NBA contract and playing time. Bailey will need to secure an eligibility ruling from a court to be able to play.
“I’m really serious about going back,” Bailey told ESPN’s Dan Murphy on January 30th. “I just want to improve my game, change the perception of me and just show that I can win.” He emphasized that his attempt to return is “not a stunt.”
The situation mirrors that of Alabama’s Charles Bediako, who also signed a two-way NBA deal and received a temporary restraining order from a state court, with an injunction hearing scheduled. This suggests a potential legal strategy for Bailey to pursue.
Grand Canyon University, now competing in the Mountain West Conference, has established itself as a successful program, reaching the NCAA tournament in four of the past five seasons under coach Bryce Drew. The Lopes currently hold a record of 15-7 overall and 8-3 in conference play.
While Grand Canyon is the first confirmed visit, sources indicate that other schools have also expressed interest in recruiting Bailey. The outcome of his eligibility battle will likely influence the level of interest from other programs.
Bailey’s time at UCLA saw him start 28 of 30 games during the 2022-2023 season, averaging 11.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game. He helped lead the Bruins to a Sweet Sixteen appearance before declaring for the NBA draft.
The pursuit of Bailey highlights a growing trend of players with professional experience attempting to return to college basketball, fueled by changes in NCAA rules and a willingness to challenge existing regulations. The outcome of Bailey’s case could have significant implications for the future of college athletics and the eligibility of players with professional backgrounds.
