In a decision that could shake things up for international college athletes in the U.S., a federal judge has blocked the government’s attempt to stop these athletes from getting visas usually meant for pros. This ruling centers on Arizona State basketball player Last-Tear Poa.
It could open the door for more international athletes to make money off their name, image, and likeness (NIL) without risking their immigration status. The potential ripple effects here are pretty big—maybe even game-changing for college sports.
Judge Jackson’s Landmark Decision
On September 19, 2025, Judge Brian Jackson in Louisiana ruled against the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). He denied their request to toss out a lawsuit from Last-Tear Poa.
Poa, an Australian point guard and former LSU player, had been denied a P-1A visa. That’s the kind of visa international professional athletes usually get.
She’s in the U.S. on an F-1 student visa right now, which means she can’t work. That’s made it tough for her to benefit from NIL deals like her American teammates.
The Core of the Dispute
The big question is whether international college athletes can get P-1A visas. Those visas would let them earn money while studying and playing in the U.S.
USCIS says the P-1A is just for athletes who are here only to play their sport. Judge Jackson didn’t buy that argument and decided the case should move forward, which could set a new standard for others.
Implications for International Athletes
This ruling could change a lot for international athletes in U.S. college sports. If Poa wins, other athletes might be able to get P-1A visas too, letting them join in on NIL deals without worrying about their visas.
That’s especially important since the NCAA’s 2021 rule change now lets college athletes get paid by their schools and outside sponsors for endorsements.
Legal and Financial Opportunities
If Poa’s case goes her way, it could mean:
- More financial opportunities for international athletes.
- Clearer rules on whether they can earn NIL money.
- Possible policy shifts at USCIS and other agencies.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Even with this positive step, there are still hurdles ahead. The next phase will look at whether Poa meets other P-1A visa requirements, like proving she competes at an internationally recognized level.
Her attorney, Amy Maldonado, thinks a lot of college athletes can meet that bar. If she’s right, this could have a much wider impact than just Poa’s case.
Ongoing Legal Battles
The case isn’t settled yet. There’s a lot of legal wrangling left to figure out if Poa qualifies, and whatever happens could influence future cases.
Schools and athletes are watching closely, hoping for some real answers and a little more certainty down the line.
Historical Context and Legislative Efforts
How international athletes can safely make money has been a headache since the NCAA’s 2021 rule change. In 2023, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said he’d work on it “with deliberate speed,” but nothing concrete has happened.
Some lawmakers have tried to step in, but so far, no bills have made it past the early stages.
Creative Workarounds
With no clear rules, schools have had to get creative to help their international athletes cash in on NIL deals. But these workarounds are risky and legally murky at best.
The Road Ahead for Last-Tear Poa
Poa’s still eligible to play her final season at Arizona State, despite the legal mess. What happens with her case could affect a lot of other athletes down the road.
Her lawyers haven’t said if she’s getting paid this season, which just adds to the uncertainty.
Potential Outcomes
The case might not wrap up until after basketball season. Still, whatever the outcome, it’s bound to leave a mark.
If the ruling goes her way, it could make things a whole lot easier for international athletes trying to balance immigration rules and their athletic careers.
The recent ruling in favor of Last-Tear Poa is definitely a big deal for the ongoing debate about NIL rights and international college athletes.
This case could shake things up, maybe even opening new doors for these athletes to find financial and professional success.
If you want more details, you can check out the full article on ESPN.
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