NCAA rules keep fans from helping homeless Boise State recruit

Boise State recruit Antoine Turner is currently homeless. His mother died of cancer when he was 4 years old, and he is not close to his father.

When his story was shown on television, fans wanted to help him out. But apparently they were told by university officials that they couldn’t do anything because it would be an NCAA violation.

Here’s the letter that Boise State’s compliance office sent to KTVB, the local TV station that aired the segment:

“We need to make it clear to your viewers and Bronco fans that it is NOT permissible within NCAA rules for boosters of Boise State athletics to provide benefits to Mr. Turner. That would include money, loans, gifts, discounts, transportation costs, etc.

“While Mr. Turner’s need is abundantly clear, it is not permissible for Boise State, the athletics department or supporters of the athletics department to assist Mr. Turner at this time.

“Once Mr. Turner arrives on campus for the start of the summer school program, he will be well taken care of -- receiving full tuition, room and board, books, fees, etc. In the meantime, the compliance office is exploring a potential waiver with the NCAA that would allow us to provide assistance prior to the start of summer school.”

Turner had been living with his uncle, but reportedly had to leave due to government housing regulations. Since then, he has been sleeping in motels and in his girlfriend’s car.

Updated at 11:06 a.m.: The NCAA approved Boise State’s request Wednesday morning to provide assistance to Turner.

Tweeted the NCAA: After Boise State’s request last night, the school may provide immediate assistance to football student-athlete Antoine Turner.