The world of college basketball is reeling from a massive point-shaving scandal that has ensnared dozens of players and authorities in a web of illegal gambling. As of today, January 16, 2026, 26 individuals, including many former college basketball players, have been charged in a scheme that reportedly involved fixing NCAA and Chinese Basketball Association games. This ongoing investigation has brought to light the extensive corruption and illegal activities that have infiltrated the sport.
Among the charged individuals is Antonio Blakeney, a former college basketball player who was allegedly involved in the scheme. Blakeney, who also played for the Jiangsu Dragons in China, is accused of working with high-stakes gamblers to manipulate game outcomes. According to the indictment, Blakeney and other players were recruited by Shane Hennen and Marves Fairley, who reportedly bet significant sums on the fixed games .
The point-shaving scandal has implicated players from 17 different college programs, highlighting the widespread nature of the corruption. Federal prosecutors in Philadelphia have charged 20 people, including 15 former college basketball players, in what they describe as a "sweeping bribery and point-shaving conspiracy" . The scheme involved manipulating the outcomes of 29 games between 2022 and 2025, with players allegedly receiving payments to underperform or otherwise influence the results .
The NCAA point-shaving case has significant implications for the integrity of college basketball. The indictment names players from a variety of programs, including notable figures like Robert Morris and Simeon Cottle, who were also involved in the scheme. The scandal has raised serious questions about the oversight and regulation of college athletics, with many calling for stricter measures to prevent similar incidents in the future .
One of the most concerning aspects of this scandal is the involvement of international players and leagues. The indictment reveals that the scheme extended beyond the NCAA, with games in the Chinese Basketball Association also being targeted. This international dimension adds a layer of complexity to the investigation and underscores the global reach of illegal gambling operations .
The federal indictment has also shed light on the methods used by the conspirators to fix games. The charges include allegations of bribery, conspiracy to commit fraud, and wire fraud, with players reportedly receiving payments to shave points or manipulate game outcomes . The investigation has involved extensive surveillance and cooperation between U.S. and international authorities, highlighting the seriousness of the allegations and the need for a coordinated response .
The point-shaving scandal has sent shockwaves through the college basketball community, prompting calls for reform and stricter oversight. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to uncover the full extent of the corruption and hold those responsible accountable. The scandal serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against illegal gambling and the need for vigilance in protecting the integrity of sports .
