The league confirmed that Doncic and Cunningham were approved after review under the extraordinary-circumstances provision, with their cases handled through an independent process. Edwards, by contrast, had filed a challenge to gain eligibility before an independent arbitrator, but the challenge was denied.
Edwards appeared in 60 qualified games during the season, and his case centered on an infection that sidelined him for a stretch. With the denial, he is not eligible for the NBA’s annual awards for the 2025-2026 regular season.
Cunningham’s absence earlier in the season came from a collapsed lung suffered in March, which caused him to miss 12 games. He finished the year having played 65 games and logging more than 2,100 minutes, continuing to be a strong All-NBA candidate despite the eligibility outcome.
A statement from Edwards’ camp followed the ruling, noting the disappointment of the decision. The league’s decisions leave Cunningham poised to contend for All-NBA honors again, while Edwards will not be considered for the season’s annual awards.
