UPDATE: A major federal investigation is intensifying into a potential gambling scheme targeting men’s college basketball games during the 2024–2025 season. Authorities have detected a disturbing pattern of suspicious betting across 13 US states and one Canadian province, raising alarms about a possible game-fixing ring.
Reports indicate that between early December 2024 and mid-January 2025, at least nine sportsbooks have flagged unusual betting behaviors. These odd bets, often placed on first-half point spreads against small-conference teams, have consistently yielded wins, sparking concerns among regulators and sportsbooks alike.
One of the most scrutinized games occurred on December 1, 2024, when substantial wagers were placed on Norfolk State to beat Stony Brook in the first half. New betting accounts or previously dormant ones were notably active, placing large bets within hours. The outcome aligned with the suspicious betting pattern as Norfolk State exceeded the spread by halftime.
In a troubling trend, Mississippi casinos reported groups of bettors arriving with cash in the tens of thousands, placing sizable wagers on matches involving teams later linked to the ongoing investigation. Internal reports from sportsbooks reveal that significant bets were also placed on Tulsa and Wright State, further complicating the investigation.
Caesars Entertainment, which operates several affected sportsbooks, has initiated its own inquiry and uncovered connections between the bettors. Just days ago, authorities arrested one individual on charges of drug trafficking and money laundering, who has since pleaded guilty in a separate case.
The FBI is now focusing on Marves Fairley, a self-proclaimed betting advisor from Mississippi, who is believed to play a crucial role in this alleged scheme. Many sportsbooks have identified Fairley as a potential key figure, pointing to his betting history. He denies any wrongdoing, asserting that his business solely provides betting picks.
As the investigation unfolds, the US Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania is reportedly preparing to file charges. The FBI has also interviewed several college athletes regarding potential game-fixing, raising concerns about the integrity of college sports.
According to IC360, a company monitoring betting integrity, the collaboration between regulators and sportsbooks highlights the strength of a well-regulated betting market, even as it exposes troubling behaviors. In response, the NCAA is urging more states to impose restrictions on proposition bets involving college athletes and to take stringent measures against offshore operators.
With the new season set to commence on November 3, both federal and college authorities are determined to prevent another spike in suspicious betting like the previous winter’s incidents. The stakes are high, and the integrity of college basketball hangs in the balance as this investigation continues to develop.
Stay tuned for further updates as officials work tirelessly to ensure fair play in college sports.
