CJ Rich Named Chair of NCAA Division I Student-Athlete Engagement Group
10/12/2026 7:09:00 PM | Men's Basketball
SPARTANBURG, S.C. – USC Upstate men's basketball senior CJ Rich has been selected as the chair of the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Student-Athlete Engagement Group, earning a national leadership role that will allow him to represent the voices of student-athletes across the country.
The NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Student-Athlete Engagement Group was established in 2023 to provide student-athletes with a direct voice in NCAA decision-making. The group consists of representatives from Division I conferences who collaborate to provide feedback on key initiatives, legislation and issues impacting men's basketball at the collegiate level.
As chair, Rich will help lead conversations surrounding some of the most significant topics in college athletics, including Name, Image and Likeness (NIL), the transfer portal, recruiting regulations, playing seasons and the overall student-athlete experience.
A native of Columbia, S.C., Rich enters his senior season with the Spartans in 2026-27. His selection to the national leadership position highlights his commitment to making an impact beyond the basketball court and advocating for student-athletes throughout the NCAA.
Rich is no stranger to the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Student-Athlete Engagement Group, having previously served as a member and participated in the group's professional development opportunities. In April 2025, Rich attended the NCAA Men's Final Four in San Antonio, Texas, where he joined fellow student-athletes for networking opportunities, leadership development and conversations with NCAA officials and industry professionals.
Through his new position, Rich will continue building on those experiences while taking on an expanded leadership role within the organization.
The engagement group works to ensure that student-athletes have a voice in discussions that directly impact their collegiate careers. In addition to providing input on NCAA policies and legislation, the group offers opportunities for student-athletes to connect with leaders in college athletics and gain valuable experience beyond competition.
Rich's selection as chair marks a significant achievement for both the USC Upstate men's basketball program and the university, placing a Spartan at the forefront of national conversations surrounding the future of college basketball.
