26 Indicted in College Basketball Game-Fixing FBI Probe
Federal prosecutors have charged 26 individuals in connection with a significant point-shaving scheme targeting college basketball. This move was announced on Thursday by U.S. Attorney David Metcalf, highlighting that numerous NCAA Division I players were involved in fixing games.
Details of the Allegations
According to Metcalf, players from 17 NCAA Division I teams allegedly participated in corrupting 29 games between September 2022 and February 2025. The indictment also sheds light on attempts to influence games in the Chinese Basketball Association.
- Charges involve 26 individuals.
- Involvement of players from 17 NCAA Division I teams.
- 29 games allegedly fixed.
- Period of activity from September 2022 to February 2025.
How the Scheme Worked
The revealed scheme involved bribing athletes to intentionally underperform, thereby benefiting sports gamblers. Bribes allegedly ranged from $10,000 to $30,000 per game. Corrupted players were targeted based on their teams’ standings, particularly those expected to lose.
For instance, if a team was pregame favorites to lose by four points, a player would be bribed to ensure the team lost by a greater margin.
Teams Impacted by the Allegations
Investigators report that the following teams were involved in the alleged rigging:
- Alabama State
- Western Michigan University
- Butler
- St. John’s
- Tulane
- East Carolina
- McNeese State
- Nicholls State
- St. Louis University
- Duquesne
- La Salle
- Fordham
- SUNY Buffalo
- Kent State
- Ohio University
- Georgetown
- DePaul
Origins of the Scheme
The scheme’s initial development allegedly involved former NBA player Antonio Blakeney, who reportedly colluded with sports bettors Marvis Fairley and Shane Hennen to fix games in the Chinese Basketball Association.
Metcalf noted that the scheme expanded into the United States, recruiting NCAA players through a network of alumni, trainers, and recruiters who had significant influence in college basketball.
Reactions from NCAA
NCAA President Charlie Baker addressed the situation, stating that investigations into the implicated teams have been initiated or completed. Baker observed that the integrity issues highlighted by law enforcement were not entirely unfamiliar to the NCAA.
This announcement follows a recent FBI crackdown on alleged illegal gambling rings, during which notable figures like Chauncey Billups and Terry Rozier were arrested.
