Texas Tech University announced Monday that transfer quarterback Brendan Sorsby is entering a residential treatment program for a gambling addiction. The move comes as the NCAA reportedly investigates Sorsby's involvement with betting. Sources indicate the NCAA's inquiry centers on Sorsby's alleged pattern of placing numerous small bets over an extended period.
The NCAA's existing guidelines, amended in 2023, stipulate severe penalties for student-athletes involved in sports betting. Wagering on their own games or other sports at their own institutions can result in a "permanent loss of collegiate eligibility in all sports." Lesser offenses, such as betting on a different team in the same sport, may lead to the loss of 50% of a season's eligibility. The guidelines also suggest that wagers exceeding $800 could trigger a potential loss of 30% of a season's eligibility.
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Sorsby, a highly sought-after player in the NCAA transfer portal this offseason, previously played at Cincinnati. His transfer to Texas Tech in December 2025 reportedly involved a significant financial commitment, with one report stating $5 million. This acquisition drew considerable public commentary, with some fans questioning the valuation of the player.
Prior to his transfer, Sorsby had entered the NCAA transfer portal in mid-December 2025, exploring his options which also included potentially entering the NFL Draft. At the time, his combination of arm strength, mobility, and game experience made him a prominent figure in the transfer market. Several major programs were reported to be scheduling visits with the quarterback to discuss playing time.
The NCAA has been actively scrutinizing gambling activities within college sports. In September 2025, NCAA president Charlie Baker addressed the rise in betting, coinciding with the announcement of investigations into 13 players across six schools for potential rule violations. The organization had recently implemented a permanent ban on three student-athletes for betting infractions, including wagering on their own games or sharing inside information. The institutions involved in that particular investigation were Mississippi Valley, New Orleans, North Carolina AT&T, Temple, Arizona State, and Eastern Michigan.
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