The University of Wisconsin has filed a lawsuit against the University of Miami for allegedly tampering with former player Xavier Lucas, who signed with the Hurricanes during the winter transfer portal cycle and is vying for a starting position in the secondary this season.

According to documents obtained by Yahoo Sports, the Badgers accuse Miami of poaching Lucas away from their roster ahead of the 2025 season, reaching out to the player despite his contract situation in the Big Ten.

Wisconsin denied a request from Lucas to enter the transfer portal in December, citing his previously signed revenue-sharing agreement, part of the proof from the Badgers. They also allege Lucas was under contract for a different NIL-related deal.

NCAA bylaws state that universities must enter players into the transfer portal within two business days of a request.

CBS Sports received the following statement from Wisconsin concerning the lawsuit:

“The University of Wisconsin-Madison remains committed to ensuring integrity and fundamental fairness in the evolving landscape of college athletics. After reviewing all facts and evaluating options, the university today filed a complaint in Wisconsin state court outlining our allegations against the University of Miami. While we reluctantly bring this case, we stand by our position that respecting and enforcing contractual obligations is essential to maintaining a level playing field. In addition to our legal action, we will continue to be proactive to protect the interests of our student-athletes, our program and the broader collegiate athletics community. We appreciate the support of our university leadership and the Big Ten Conference. As we move forward, we will respect the court process and provide further updates only as appropriate.”

In a statement to CBS Sports, the Big Ten expressed its support for Wisconsin in this matter:

“The Big Ten Conference is aware of the litigation recently filed by the University of Wisconsin-Madison against the University of Miami and is supportive of UW-Madison’s position…” The statement continued to align with Wisconsin’s efforts to preserve the integrity of collegiate athletics.

Last season, Lucas, as a true freshman at Wisconsin, made one start, racking up 203 defensive snaps, 18 tackles, one sack, and one interception.

The Badgers informed Yahoo Sports they “reluctantly” chose to take legal action to uphold the integrity of the sport amid ongoing changes.

Lawyer Darren Heitner representing Lucas argued previously that the contract Lucas signed at Wisconsin is merely a memorandum of understanding and is not enforceable until finalized, a settlement that was approved earlier this month and allows colleges to start directly compensating players beginning July 1.