The situation around Jizzle James has moved far beyond a simple transfer story.
What started as a messy split with Cincinnati has now turned into a public back-and-forth, a cease-and-desist letter, and a statement from his father, NFL Hall of Famer Edgerrin James, saying his son is battling substance abuse and is “NOT in the right state of mind right now.”
James’ path through the last year has been anything but straightforward. He was removed from the Cincinnati basketball program in the summer of 2025 because of undisclosed “personal issues,” then brought back in the middle of the 2025-26 season and finished the year with the Bearcats. After that, he entered the NCAA transfer portal, committed to Charlotte, and then left the 49ers in August 2026 before ever appearing in a game.
Once he departed Charlotte, James began posting cryptic messages on Instagram. He also teased a return to Cincinnati and promoted his own merchandise, which led the university to send him a formal cease-and-desist letter.
The school made its position clear in writing: “As you are no longer a member of the University of Cincinnati men’s basketball program, you are no longer authorized to use, represent, or commercially promote the University of Cincinnati basketball program, including the use of the University’s name, logos, uniforms, jerseys, or other team-related likenesses,” the message read. “Any sale, advertisement, or distribution of University of Cincinnati basketball jerseys or merchandise representing you as a current player is strictly prohibited.
Get notified of the most viral NFL stories via Google! “Additionally, you may not publish, share, or promote any social media posts, advertisements, or other communications suggesting or stating that you are returning to play for the University of Cincinnati basketball program.
Effective immediately, all public or commercial representations implying your current affiliation with the program must cease.”
James responded by posting a screenshot of the letter and firing back at the school. “I have my own merch I made. I don’t need y’all jerseys, and f*** Cincinnati for all I care,” James said in response.
Then came the statement from Edgerrin James, who urged people to approach his son with compassion but not with cash or gifts. “Jizzle is dealing with substance abuse and is NOT in the right state of mind right now,” the elder James posted on social media.
“If you see him, show him LOVE - but DO NOT give him money, valuables, or anything material. “You’re not helping him by feeding the problem.
He wants/needs for NOTHING. “Give him a hug, give him encouragement, give him love.
THAT’S IT.” “Be patient with him.
We’re fighting for him, not against him.”
Jizzle James played for Cincinnati from 2023-26 and appeared in 95 games for the program. For now, Cincinnati has made it clear it is done with any connection to him, and there is no return coming.
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