Will Loyalty Win Over the Clock? Indiana’s Anthony Leal Fights for Sixth Year in Crimson—As NCAA Decision Looms, Fans Hold Their Breath for a Hometown Hero’s Final Chapter
BLOOMINGTON, IN — In an era where college basketball is dominated by transfer portal chaos, name-image-likeness deals, and short-term allegiances, Indiana’s Anthony Leal stands as a rare symbol of unwavering loyalty. Now, as he petitions the NCAA for a sixth year of eligibility, the question on every Hoosier fan’s mind is: Will the hometown hero get one final shot under new head coach Darian DeVries?
Leal, a Bloomington South High School legend, former Indiana Mr. Basketball, and four-star recruit, has spent his entire collegiate career in the cream and crimson. Through coaching transitions, evolving lineups, and changing expectations, Leal stayed true to the university that captured his heart as a child — and that’s what makes this moment so emotionally charged.
After five seasons with the Hoosiers, Leal was honored at Senior Day on March 8, 2025, following Indiana’s home game against Ohio State. Accompanied by his family, he watched a heartfelt tribute video in what many assumed was his final curtain call. But as legendary broadcaster Lee Corso might say — “Not so fast, my friend.”
A Surprise Twist in the Story
According to reports from Peegs.com and 247Sports, Leal is appealing to the NCAA for a medical redshirt waiver, which would grant him one more year of eligibility — allowing him to return to Indiana for the 2025-2026 season as a sixth-year senior.
The appeal is based on injury time missed earlier in his collegiate career, which could justify the additional year under NCAA rules. If approved, Leal would join a new-look Indiana squad led by new head coach Darian DeVries, who took over after the departure of Mike Woodson.
Why His Return Matters
While Leal’s career stats may not leap off the page — averaging 3.3 points per game this past season while shooting 57.8% from the field and 41.2% from beyond the arc — his value goes far beyond the box score.
“Representing Indiana has been the honor of a lifetime,” Leal shared. “From going to games as a kid to stepping onto the court wearing cream and crimson, this incredible journey has come full circle in ways I never could have imagined.”
Known for his tenacious defense, selfless leadership, and unwavering commitment, Leal’s presence in the locker room and on the court has made him a respected voice among teammates and coaches. Despite being snubbed from the Big Ten All-Defensive Team, he was honored with the Big Ten Sportsmanship Award in 2024 — a nod to his integrity and character.
The Bigger Picture: More Than Just Basketball
Leal represents something increasingly rare in modern college sports — a player who puts school loyalty above personal gain. In an age when transferring multiple times for playing time, exposure, or NIL deals has become the norm, his story is a refreshing contrast.
“Anthony Leal is the kind of player every program dreams of having,” one Big Ten analyst said. “He’s not just a teammate, he’s a culture-builder. If he returns for a sixth year, it would be a massive boost for Indiana’s chemistry during a pivotal rebuild under Coach DeVries.”
What’s Next?
The NCAA’s decision on Leal’s waiver request is expected in the coming weeks. Until then, Indiana fans are holding their collective breath, hoping to see one of their own get a final shot at glory in Assembly Hall.
For Leal, it’s not just about more minutes on the court — it’s about finishing what he started.
“This isn’t just where I played. This is home. If I’m granted another chance, I’ll give it everything I have—again.”
Will the NCAA give Leal the green light for a storybook final season? One thing’s for sure: the Hoosier faithful will be ready to cheer him on louder than ever.
