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The NCAA has permanently banned six former men’s basketball players after uncovering three separate betting-manipulation schemes tied to the 2024–25 season. The landmark decision, announced by the Committee on Infractions, involves athletes from the University of New Orleans, Mississippi Valley State University, and Arizona State University, marking one of the most significant disciplinary actions in recent college sports history.
Investigators determined that the players participated in either game manipulation or the sharing of inside information with bettors. The NCAA’s findings were based on detailed phone records, text messages, and witness statements that revealed deliberate efforts to influence game outcomes for financial gain.
At the University of New Orleans, players Cedquavious Hunter, Dyquavian Short, and Jamond Vincent were found guilty of coordinating with outside bettors. A teammate reported overhearing them discussing wagers before their December 28, 2024, matchup. Evidence from Vincent’s phone showed messages directing third parties to place bets, knowing the players intended to “throw the game.” The Privateers lost that contest 86-61. Investigators concluded that over a stretch of seven games, the trio intentionally altered their performances to ensure the team lost by wider margins than the betting spread.
University President Kathy Johnson reaffirmed the school’s commitment to integrity, stating that the institution “remains fully committed to compliance with all NCAA and conference rules” and will continue to educate student-athletes about ethical conduct and betting regulations.
At Mississippi Valley State University, the case centered around players Donovan Sanders and Alvin Stredic. Integrity monitoring services flagged suspicious betting activity surrounding MVSU’s January 6, 2025, game against Alabama A&M, which ended in a 79-67 loss. Sanders later admitted that he and Stredic had been offered money by a third party to perform poorly during the first half of the game. Text messages revealed that Sanders also attempted to conceal communications, instructing a teammate to delete them. Both players have since left the university. MVSU’s administration emphasized its “zero-tolerance approach to wagering violations” and said the incident would serve as a learning moment for all student-athletes.
The Arizona State case involved forward Chatton “BJ” Freeman, who was linked to former player Mykell Robinson through messages showing that Freeman had shared insider performance details on multiple occasions. Robinson used this information to place bets via daily-fantasy accounts. Investigators also found that Freeman shared betting-related details with his girlfriend, who was wagering on his games. Despite his denials, records confirmed Freeman operated a fantasy sports account under his own name and email address.
The NCAA’s decision reinforces its zero-tolerance stance against gambling-related misconduct in college athletics. It follows a broader crackdown amid growing concerns about sports betting’s influence. Officials revealed that more than 30 current or former college athletes are under review for similar offenses.
All six players—Hunter, Short, Vincent, Sanders, Stredic, and Freeman—have been declared permanently ineligible. The NCAA’s action sends a clear message that integrity in competition remains non-negotiable, even as sports wagering continues to expand nationwide.
