French basketball player Narcisse Ngoy has been cleared by the NCAA to play for Auburn University, confirming his eligibility for the 2026-2027 season and allowing him to potentially play two years of college basketball. The announcement was made by Auburn coach Steven Pearl during the team's Pro Day at the Neville Arena on October 8, 2026. Ngoy, a 7-foot center, was selected with the 57th overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks before his rights were transferred to the Los Angeles Clippers. Despite being drafted, he will be allowed to continue his development in the NCAA. Ngoy had previously played for Poitiers Basket 86 during the 2025-2026 season, where he averaged 9.9 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game. He was named MVP and Defensive Player of the Year in the ÉLITE 2 league, a second-tier French basketball league. Before joining Poitiers, he had played for teams such as Paris Basketball, the Chorale de Roanne, Rouen, and JL Bourg, where he was loaned to Poitiers in 2025. Ngoy committed to Auburn in March 2026, and coach Steven Pearl highlighted his physical abilities, defensive skills, and team commitment. The NCAA's decision allows Ngoy to play for Auburn for up to two seasons, though he is not required to stay for the full duration. His path includes transitioning from the French professional league to the NCAA, while maintaining his status as a drafted NBA player whose rights are now with the Clippers. Ngoy's situation is unique, as it allows him to pursue both college basketball and his professional development. This decision reflects the NCAA's flexibility in allowing players who have been drafted to still play in college, which is a relatively rare but permitted scenario. His time at Auburn could provide him with additional development opportunities before entering the NBA, where he is already recognized as a prospect.