Philly Gambler Under Federal Investigation in NCAA Betting Scandal
Shane Hennen, a professional gambler from Philadelphia, is now a central figure in a federal investigation into a vast NCAA betting scandal. The indictment, unsealed recently, accuses Hennen of leading a conspiracy that spans both U.S. and international borders. This investigation also involves connections with the Chinese Basketball Association.
Background of the Investigation
Hennen, often known by his nickname “Sugar Shane,” was arrested last January. His previous charges included connections to a gambling case involving a former NBA player and a November indictment concerning the NBA. The new charges outline serious allegations, including bribing athletes and fixing games.
Key Allegations
- Bribery of players to manipulate game outcomes.
- Involvement in fixing poker games connected to organized crime.
- Hiring college basketball trainers to rig NCAA games.
- Placement of fraudulent bets, particularly on athletes like Jontay Porter and Terry Rozier.
Criminal History and Rise to Prominence
Hennen’s criminal past includes charges related to a 2006 gambling scheme and a stabbing incident involving a former basketball player. Following a prison term, he re-entered the gambling scene, moving to Philadelphia in 2015 and establishing himself at Rivers Casino. This location became a hub for his lucrative betting operations.
Global Betting Network
In recent years, Hennen expanded his operations internationally by connecting with players overseas. He recruited former LSU star Antonio Blakeney and others to influence games in the Chinese league. As a result, wagering on Chinese basketball games surged, with bets sometimes exceeding $200,000.
NCAA Involvement
The alleged conspiracies did not stop at international betting. Hennen’s network also aimed to sway NCAA games, recruiting various trainers to facilitate the rigging of matches. Reports indicate that at least 39 players from more than 17 Division 1 teams were implicated, resulting in millions wagered on manipulated games.
Growing Scrutiny
As Hennen’s profile in the gambling world increased, so did scrutiny from authorities. In 2024, both the National Collegiate Athletic Association and integrity watchdogs began investigating suspicious betting patterns surrounding Temple University basketball games.
Recent Developments
In January 2025, authorities intercepted Hennen at Las Vegas’s airport as he attempted to flee to South America. He was found with $10,000 cash and claimed he was seeking dental treatment. However, federal prosecutors had already flagged him as the main orchestrator of the betting scandal.
Current Status
Hennen is currently in plea negotiations and has relocated to a new residence in South Philadelphia. The FBI has stated that Hennen’s actions have severely damaged the integrity of professional sports. He faces serious charges that could lead to significant legal consequences.
The unfolding case illustrates the far-reaching implications of gambling corruption in sports, underscoring the need for continued vigilance against these practices.
