WHL’s Braxton Whitehead commits to Arizona State, challenging NCAA rules

Braxton Whitehead, a player in the Western Hockey League, has received a verbal commitment for the 2025-26 season from Arizona State University’s Division I program, despite NCAA eligibility rules that typically prevent players who have appeared in major junior hockey games from playing college hockey. This commitment comes amidst a proposed class action lawsuit challenging these rules, which could potentially allow players to participate in both major juniors and college hockey. Whitehead and Arizona State are optimistic that these restrictions will be lifted before he joins the team in 2025. This decision could pave the way for other CHL players to pursue NCAA commitments in the future.