Federal Charges Against 26 in Massive College Basketball Point-Shaving Scheme
Overview of Allegations
Federal prosecutors have charged 26 individuals in connection with a significant point-shaving scheme involving dozens of college basketball players across multiple NCAA Division I teams. U.S. Attorney David Metcalf announced the charges during a news conference in Philadelphia on Thursday, revealing that the conspiracy impacted 39 players and involved 17 different teams, leading to alleged fixes or attempts to fix 29 games.
“This was a massive scheme,” Metcalf remarked, emphasizing the extensive reach of the operation within the college basketball landscape. The indictment unsealed on Thursday alleges that players were bribed to manipulate game outcomes, benefiting sports gamblers. Various attempts to fix games reportedly fell short when players resisted compliance or failed to execute the plan successfully.
Details of the Scheme
The allegations detailed in the indictment span from September 2022 to February 2025. Among the games implicated were not only NCAA contests but also matches within the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA). Former college players are accused of bribing active players, with the potential for bribes reportedly ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 per game.
Metcalf explained that the conspirators identified games in which a player from a team favored to lose could be bribed to underperform. For example, if a team was expected to lose by four points, that player would receive a bribe to ensure the final margin surpassed that spread.
Teams Involved
The investigation has identified several teams allegedly affected by the scheme, including:
- Abilene Christian
- Alabama State
- Butler
- DePaul
- Duquesne
- East Carolina
- Fordham
- Georgetown
- Kennesaw State
- Kent State
- La Salle
- McNeese State
- Nicholls State
- Ohio University
- St. Louis University
- St. John’s
- SUNY Buffalo
- Tulane
- Western Michigan University
In statements, both Ohio University and DePaul have asserted that nstart of their current players were implicated, while La Salle confirmed its cooperation with the ongoing investigation.
Initial Findings and Notable Figures
The alleged scheme reportedly began with former Chicago Bulls player Antonio Blakeney, who, alongside professional sports bettors Marvis Fairley and Shane Hennen, attempted to influence outcomes of CBA games. Metcalf noted that the scheme moved to the United States as they sought out connections with NCAA players, leveraging relationships with individuals inherently tied to the basketball community.
“They picked these men because they were well connected in the world of college basketball,” Metcalf stated, highlighting the network of influencers and alumni involved in the conspiracy.
NCAA Response
In response to the allegations, NCAA President Charlie Baker indicated that the organization was already conducting or had completed investigations into most of the teams named. “The pattern of college basketball game integrity conduct revealed by law enforcement today is not entirely new information to the NCAA,” Baker commented.
This announcement follows a recent FBI crackdown that resulted in the arrest of notable figures, including NBA veterans Chauncey Billups, Terry Rozier, and Damon Jstarts, associated with illegal gambling operations.
Conclusion
The unfolding situation in college basketball highlights profound concerns about integrity and corruption within the sport. As the investigation continues, further developments may arise, potentially reshaping the landscape of collegiate athletics.