15 Ex-NCAA Players Charged in US-China Basketball Rigging Scandal
Federal prosecutors in the United States have announced charges against 20 individuals, including 15 former NCAA basketball players, in an alleged scheme to manipulate outcomes of games in both the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA). This significant federal indictment highlights the ongoing issues of integrity within sports betting.
Details of the Charges
The defendants are accused of engaging in a betting scheme that spanned from September 2022 to February 2025. The allegations include conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bribery in sporting contests. The unsealed charges were filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
- 15 former NCAA players from Division 1 colleges were involved.
- Five additional individuals described as fixers played various roles in the scheme.
Background of the Defendants
Among the fixers, two worked in player training and development, while others included a former NCAA player, a trainer, and individuals engaged in gambling and sports handicapping.
Method of Operation
Prosecutors alleged that the individuals attempted to “fix” men’s basketball games using a method known as point shaving. This practice involves manipulating the margin by which a team wins or loses.
The targeted games included those played at:
- Nicholls State University
- Tulane University
- Northwestern State University
- La Salle University
- DePaul University
- Robert Morris University
- University of Southern Mississippi
- North Carolina A&T State University
- Kennesaw State University
- Coppin State University
- University of New Orleans
- Abilene Christian University
- Eastern Michigan University
- Alabama State University
Bribery Payments
According to the 70-page indictment, college basketball players were recruited with bribe payments that typically ranged from $10,000 to $30,000 per game. This lucrative offer highlights the risks that young athletes face amidst the growing sports betting market.
Previous Investigations
The charges come in the wake of a series of NCAA investigations, which resulted in at least ten players receiving lifetime bans due to betting on their own teams and games. Overall, the NCAA has investigated more than 30 players related to gambling allegations. This indictment is part of a broader crackdown on illegal gambling operations connected to professional basketball, which saw over 30 individuals charged last year.
As the sports landscape continues to evolve, it becomes imperative to ensure the integrity of games is maintained amidst the rising interest in sports betting.
