Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby is entering a residential treatment program for a gambling addiction, according to multiple sources. The NCAA is reportedly investigating Sorsby's activities, a development that comes as the organization intensifies its focus on sports betting among student-athletes.
Sorsby, a highly sought-after transfer from Cincinnati, had been positioned as a key player for the Red Raiders' aspirations this season. His departure for treatment leaves a significant void on the team's roster.
NCAA's Stance on Athlete Betting
NCAA regulations strictly prohibit student-athletes from wagering on college and professional sports. The severity of penalties can vary.
Betting on Own Games/Athletic Department Games: This carries the potential for a "permanent loss of collegiate eligibility in all sports."
Betting on Other Sports at Own School: Such actions could result in the "loss of 50-percent of one season of eligibility."
Wagering Amounts: Amended guidelines from 2023 indicate that bets exceeding "$800" might lead to the potential loss of "30% of a season of eligibility."
Program's Response and Background
Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire released a statement indicating the program's support for Sorsby's decision to prioritize his health. "Our program is behind Brendan as he prioritizes his health," McGuire stated. "We love Brendan and support his decision to seek professional help."
Read More: NCAA Gives 5 Years Eligibility for College Athletes Starting 2026
The university's statement emphasized its commitment to fostering an environment where student-athletes feel empowered to seek professional assistance. Sorsby's transfer to Texas Tech this offseason followed a period where he was considered a top prospect in the NCAA transfer portal. Sources suggest his alleged gambling involved a "steady flurry of small bets over a period of time," with one report indicating he may have bet on games while at his previous school.
The NCAA has reportedly undertaken numerous investigations into sports betting activity in recent months, examining instances of players betting on sports themselves or sharing proprietary information. The organization has also reportedly considered and, in some instances, pushed for bans on prop bets and suspension of college sports from prediction markets.
