NCAA appeals temporary injunction allowing Brendan Sorsby to play despite gambling admissions
Summary
Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby has been granted a temporary injunction allowing him to play in the 2026 season despite admitting to gambling on his own team. The ruling, issued by a Texas state court, was a significant victory for Sorsby, who argued that he would suffer irreparable harm to his career and personal growth if barred from playing. The NCAA, which had previously ruled Sorsby permanently ineligible, has formally filed a notice of appeal seeking an accelerated review by the Court of Appeals for the Seventh District of Texas. The NCAA stated that the ruling undermines the integrity of sports and that it is committed to defending against actions that threaten competitive balance. Sorsby will miss the Red Raiders' first two games but is eligible to play the rest of the season. The NCAA has also noted that Sorsby admitted to wagering over $90,000 on more than 9,000 bets during his college career, including bets on Indiana football and basketball while he was a student. Sorsby's legal team argued that he was suffering from a gambling and anxiety disorder and that the NCAA was effectively punishing him for a mental health condition. The NCAA's appeal is expected to be heard in the next 24 to 48 hours. The case highlights ongoing legal challenges to NCAA governance and the enforcement of gambling rules.
(Source:The New York Times)