The University of Texas athletic department finds itself at the center of a controversy that could have far-reaching implications. As the situation unfolds, the decisions made in Austin may set a precedent for programs across the country.
Texas Admits Wrongdoing, Looks To Tighten Program
Texas self-reported violations that involve gambling within the department. Just reading that sentence lends itself to thoughts of rampant gambling and seedy back alley wagering.
Now, that antiquated thought from the 1930s needs to disappear. In trying to stay ahead of any potential NCAA punishments, the Longhorns athletic department lives in rarefied air, as opposed to many of their peers. The Austin American-Statesman newspaper broke down the issue by stating:
“Two football players, a non-student-athlete associated with the women’s tennis program, a student assistant and an uncategorized athletic department employee as the violators. Collectively, the five individuals totaled $14,885.76 in impermissible wagers.
“The wagers were placed with PrizePicks, a ‘daily fantasy’ sports website where users can wager money on athletes’ statistical performances. Traditional sports betting remains illegal in Texas, but daily fantasy sites like PrizePicks are legal.”
Basically, two athletes and employees played daily fantasy sports. Now, at this point, things get rather interesting. In these cases, people wager in favor of an athlete’s performance.
At the same time, the NCAA strictly prohibits anyone associated with the athletic department from wagering. These individuals knowingly broke a rule and should receive punishment for it. Also, it depends on how high the knowledge level in the management triangle goes.
Which Law Did They Break?
The NCAA makes its objection to gambling very clear. In fact, one of their bylaws, 10.3, according to their website, outlines the infraction:
“10.3 Sports Wagering Activities. [#] The following individuals shall not knowingly participate in sports wagering activities or provide information to individuals involved in or associated with any type of sports wagering activities concerning intercollegiate, amateur or professional athletics competition: (Adopted: 4/26/07 effective 8/1/07)
(a) Staff members of an institution’s athletics department;
(b) Nonathletics department staff members who have responsibilities within or over the athletics department (e.g., chancellor or president, faculty athletics representative, individual to whom athletics reports);
(c) Staff members of a conference office; and
(d) Student-athletes.
The University of Texas, through its daily betting, broke every part of this code. As mentioned, what should Texas do, outside or reporting themselves? First, fire every staff member involved and, if the players are still on the football team, remove them, regardless of their role or importance within the football program.
Furthermore, the staff needs to see their names placed on a permanent “do not hire” list. While the infractions don’t cast a large pall over the athletics program, keeping your house clean should matter at UT. The biggest school in one of the most active football states needs to remain above reproach.
Over the last couple of years, collegiate gambling, as far as self-reporting looks on the rise. Brad Bohannon looked to build a legacy at Alabama as their baseball coach. However, he provided inside information regarding his team to bettors.
For example, on April 28, 2023, a casino film documents someone betting an abnormal amount on LSU. After the NCAA started their investigation, they found the gambler had a direct connection to Bohannon. As a result, the school fired him, and the NCAA dropped a 15-year show-cause penalty.
In essence, Bohannon cannot work for an NCAA school within that time without his new school needing to monitor and report his progress every six months. Bohannon’s career as a head baseball coach dissipated two years ago. Using his inside knowledge for personal benefit hurts the integrity of the game.
To their credit, the Longhorns did the right thing. Publicly acknowledging the shortcomings of your athletic problem is a humbling endeavor. While they should receive the lightest slap on the wrist, the athletic director needs to develop a program that teaches new hires and establishes a zero-tolerance policy. This should change Austin’s internal philosophy.
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