NCAA Investigates Sports Betting Among Players

The NCAA has initiated investigations aimed at curtailing sports betting involving coaches and student-athletes. Recently, three male basketball players from San Jose and Fresno faced permanent suspensions due to their suspected involvement in manipulative betting practices. However, the universities themselves have not faced any penalties.

One notable case involves Stephen Vasquez and Mykell Robinson, the latter of whom was once my roommate in Fresno. Both were connected to the 2023-24 season, and it’s worth noting that before Vasquez transferred to SJSU, he had a role in sales. Another player, Jalen Weaver, also emerged in connection with these cases.

During a game in January 2025 against San Jose State, Robinson allegedly communicated via text about plans to intentionally perform poorly in certain statistical areas. According to and NCAA reports, it was found that Robinson, Vasquez, and others placed approximately $2,200 in bets on Robinson’s underperformance, ultimately redistributing around $15,950 among those who placed the wagers due to his lackluster showing.

ESPN reported that Fresno State basketball players manipulated their performances for gambling purposes and collaborated with two players to bet on their statistics.

While at Fresno, Robinson reportedly bet on Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS), with 13 bets linked to his own performance. The NCAA uncovered messages between student-athletes detailing gambling strategies, which contributed to further manipulations.

Robinson also placed several bets on Weaver, a teammate in Fresno, with at least two made prior to a late December 2024 game after they exchanged insights about their betting lines. The NCAA noted that these interactions indicated a significant level of collusion among the players.

Consequently, Weaver also placed a $50 parlay bet for both Robinson and another athlete, resulting in a $260 payout.