NCAA Permanently Bans Two Ex-Fordham Players Over Betting Scheme
The NCAA permanently banned two former Fordham University basketball players on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, ending their NCAA eligibility over an alleged betting-related game-manipulation scheme.[1]
The sanctions follow allegations that the players took part in a coordinated effort to manipulate game outcomes tied to wagers, and the bans immediately bar them from competing in NCAA competition.[1]
A permanent NCAA ban prevents those suspended from competing for or representing member institutions and can disqualify them from other college-athletics roles governed by the association.[1]
The episode traces back to allegations and an investigation into betting activity tied to Fordham games that prompted the NCAA review.[1]
Fox News first reported the bans on Tuesday evening Central time.[1]
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📌 Key Facts
- On Tuesday, April 28, 2026, the NCAA declared former Fordham players Elijah Gray and Will Richardson permanently ineligible for NCAA competition.
- Enforcement staff tied the players to a known bettor who placed a $10,000 bet on Fordham’s February 2024 game, wagering that Fordham’s opponent would win.
- Gray told investigators he and Richardson initially agreed to lose the game for $10,000-$15,000 each but said he ultimately played normally and Fordham won.
- The NCAA said Gray admitted violating ethical conduct rules by providing information to a known bettor, while Richardson denied involvement and was found non-cooperative.
- Both cases were classified as Level I ethical conduct violations, the NCAA’s most serious category.
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