The NCAA has imposed a three-year suspension on three college basketball players from the University of New Orleans. They had been found to be complicit in a betting ring that focused specifically on fixing their own games. That investigation, which was initiated by an anonymous tip, uncovered widespread game manipulation and cheating. As a consequence, players Hunter, Short and Vincent are now serving season-long bans.
According to the announcement, the NCAA started its investigation after a tip-off about Robinson’s supposed participation in betting-related activities. This report sparked an immediate investigation into the Fresno State product. Further examination of text messages with Robinson revealed further violations incurred by fellow teammate, Freeman. Robinson received in-house knowledge from Freeman on at least four different occasions. This was between November and December 2024.
Robinson allegedly used this intel to bet against Freeman by betting on him through daily fantasy sports accounts. The disclosure of such important information to his then-girlfriend at least two times. This insider knowledge gave her the firepower to place informed bets. The NCAA considered these actions as flagrant violations of its rules.
Yet, as the federal investigation progressed, New Orleans moved quickly on its own. As punishment, they suspended Hunter, Short, and Vincent—the three student-athletes most obviously implicated—for the duration of the competitive season. The university’s decision was influenced by the findings of the NCAA’s review and the serious nature of the allegations against its players.
Freeman’s actions in providing information to Robinson and his girlfriend demonstrate a clear disregard for the integrity of college athletics. The NCAA has always taken an active role in monitoring gambling and game manipulation. At their best, they impose tough standards to level the playing field in intercollegiate athletics across all divisions.
The aftermath of this investigation should lead to the urgent inquiry of the culture of sports wagering among college athletes. With more and more states legalizing sports betting, the NCAA is at an important crossroads. They need to enforce compliance with rules by student-athletes to maintain the integrity of collegiate sports.