Building Safe Pathways for Global Student-Athletes
We help NCAA programs and international prospects navigate documents, residency, and visas with a compliance-first, attorney-supported corridor operating through South Africa.
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What is International Player Services?
International Player Services (IPS) is a compliance and documentation coordination firm that helps international student-athletes navigate NCAA eligibility, U.S. visa processing, and cross-border documentation through a third-country residency hub in Johannesburg, South Africa. IPS was founded by Bryant Johnson and operates in partnership with McCormick Law to move international basketball prospects into NCAA programs compliantly.
The Challenge
International student-athlete mobility is growing rapidly, but many prospects encounter process failures long before they reach campus.
- Transcripts and ministries delay or block document release
- NCAA Eligibility Center tasks take too long
- Visa appointments are backlogged or denied
- No single system sees the full picture
Coaches are excited about the prospect. Compliance is preparing for the email.
Our Vision
IPS turns uncertainty into a clear, repeatable pathway. We work with third-country residency hubs and counsel to create a corridor universities can trust.
- Compliance first - built with attorneys
- Athlete centered - single owner of off-court process
How the Corridor Works
Intake and Alignment
We align with coach, compliance, and international office for confirmation and next steps.
South Africa Residency & Training
Working with McCormick Law in Johannesburg to secure lawful status and training base.
Documents & NCAA Readiness
IPS coordinates transcripts, certified translations, club attestations, and Eligibility Center tasks.
US Visa Preparation
From the South Africa hub, the athlete prepares a well-organized visa application and interview prep.
Handoff to Campus
IPS coordinates arrival logistics, initial orientation, and a smooth handoff to campus support.
Who IPS Works With
For Universities and Programs
- NCAA women and men basketball programs
- Compliance and legal teams needing clarity
- International offices managing complex cases
For Athletes and Families
- Elite prospects with offers from United States schools
- Players facing document, residency, or visa obstacles
- Families wanting a trusted structured pathway
IPS is a coordination and compliance partner. We do not replace legal counsel, advisors, or institutional policies.
What IPS Is and Is Not
IPS Is
- A professional conduit between schools, attorneys, consulates, and federations
- A logistics and documentation partner for international prospects
- A bridge to residency and training options
- A design studio for storytelling and brand development
IPS Is Not
- Not a visa adjudicator or law firm
- Not a guardian or host family
- Not a replacement for institutional compliance control
We design systems that make your attorneys more comfortable and confident.
IPS Leaders
Joe Lopez is launching the Legacy Foundation through IPS - a curated set of resources and background materials for the foundation and IPS.