Green Bay TBT Waiver: Basketball Tournament Bid
- Green bay has requested an NCAA waiver to allow its menS basketball team to participate in The Basketball Tournament (TBT), a $1 million, winner-take-all summer competition.
- The university argues that TBT serves as a suitable substitute for the foreign tour exception, which permits college teams to play against professional teams abroad every four years.
- Phoenix coach Doug Gottlieb questioned the logic of the NCAA's rules.
Green Bay is making a bold move, requesting an NCAA waiver to join The Basketball Tournament (TBT), a high-stakes summer competition with a $1 million prize. this push underscores the universityS strategy to provide cost-effective opportunities, positioning TBT as a compelling choice to expensive foreign tours, especially with the changing landscape of college athletics. The primary_keyword here is “NCAA waiver,” demonstrating Green Bay’s pursuit to compete against alumni teams and professional players. Secondary_keyword “TBT tournament” is at the heart of this news. Athletic Director Josh moon advocates for this change, citing outdated NCAA rules and the need for competitive experiences within financial constraints. Horizon League and TBT organizers are backing the Phoenix’s request. News Directory 3 may provide further updates. Will the NCAA grant Green Bay’s wish? Discover what’s next in the coming weeks.
green Bay Seeks NCAA Waiver for TBT Tournament Berth
Updated May 27, 2025
Green bay has requested an NCAA waiver to allow its menS basketball team to participate in The Basketball Tournament (TBT), a $1 million, winner-take-all summer competition. The tournament includes college alumni teams and current professional players.
The university argues that TBT serves as a suitable substitute for the foreign tour exception, which permits college teams to play against professional teams abroad every four years. The waiver acknowledges that TBT isn’t NCAA-certified.
Phoenix coach Doug Gottlieb questioned the logic of the NCAA’s rules. “When you play overseas…those aren’t NCAA-sanctioned games,” Gottlieb said. ”So…if I played this exact same game three hours north of here in canada, it’d be OK. It doesn’t make sense.” He emphasized the importance of summer basketball competition.
Cost is another factor. Green Bay Athletic Director Josh Moon noted that a foreign trip can be expensive, especially as college athletics prepares for the finalization of the House settlement. Participating in TBT would provide a similar experience within the university’s financial means. The focus is on providing opportunities for the team, Moon said.
Moon also stated that current NCAA rules, including the foreign trip allowance, are outdated due to increased player movement. “You’re working in an habitat that is still largely built on rules from 10, 15 years ago,” Moon said. “There’s still massive amounts of legislation that doesn’t make any sense.”
Horizon League Commissioner Julie Roe Lach and TBT organizers support Green Bay’s waiver request. TBT CEO Jon Mugar said the idea of college teams competing against retired or current professional players is appealing. Mugar added that TBT has communicated with about 10 college programs about potential participation.
There is precedent for active NCAA players in TBT. In 2022, Jarred Houston, then with Division III Emerson, played in the tournament.
Green Bay submitted a similar waiver last year, but the denial came too late for an appeal. The Phoenix had a 4-28 record last season, Gottlieb’s first as coach.
What’s next
The NCAA is expected to rule on Green Bay’s waiver request in the coming weeks.A favorable decision would allow the Phoenix to participate in the summer basketball competition, offering valuable experience and exposure for the team.