Texas Tech QB Brendan Sorsby Ruled Eligible After Betting Scandal
A judge’s ruling on Monday, June 8, 2026, has reinstated Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby, despite the athlete’s admission of betting on his own team. The decision has sparked a crisis across college athletics, with institutions like Georgia and Nebraska already moving to block future contests against the Red Raiders.
Why was Brendan Sorsby ruled eligible?
Retired Tarrant County Judge Ken Curry granted a temporary injunction allowing Sorsby to play, ruling that the quarterback would suffer “irreparable injury” if banned. Attorney Jeffrey Kessler successfully argued that Sorsby’s gambling history should be treated as a mental health and addiction issue.
The ruling follows a legal battle that began May 18, when Sorsby sued the NCAA. Sorsby admitted to wagering at least $90,000 on professional and college sports over four years, which included 40 bets on Indiana football during his freshman year in 2022.
How are college athletic directors reacting to the ruling?
Reaction from league leadership has been nearly unanimous in its disapproval. ACC commissioner Jim Phillips told ESPN the ruling is part of a “horrendous pattern” that erodes the integrity of the process.
Florida AD Scott Stricklin compared the situation to the 1919 “Black Sox Scandal,” where players took bribes to lose the World Series. Stricklin stated he was “stunned” that a court would find this acceptable, noting that gambling on one’s own team is a fundamental violation of American sports.
TCU coach Sonny Dykes questioned if anyone could ever trust the outcome of a game again. Dykes expressed concern that other players might now believe betting on football is acceptable.
What institutional actions have been taken against Texas Tech?
Several high-profile programs have already distanced themselves from the Red Raiders. Georgia deputy athletic director Will Lawler issued a memo forbidding all school teams from scheduling future contests against Texas Tech until further notice.
Nebraska AD Troy Dannen similarly told ESPN that his teams are not allowed to schedule the Red Raiders. Three Big Ten sources indicate officials may discuss a leaguewide mandate to avoid scheduling Texas Tech in any regular-season sport.
Within the Big 12, athletic directors Mike Buddie of TCU and Gene Taylor of Kansas State reported informal chatter about schools refusing to play Texas Tech. Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark confirmed meetings are scheduled this week with the executive board and conference ADs.
What happens next in the Sorsby case?
The NCAA has formally filed an “accelerated appeal” in Lubbock County, Texas. However, the legal timeline may render the case moot if a final judicial ruling occurs after the current season ends.
Future developments could include a formal Big Ten mandate against scheduling Texas Tech. Additionally, the Big 12 may seek further guidance from NCAA president Charlie Baker as the league evaluates the broad impacts of the ruling.
Texas Tech president Lawrence Schovanec continues to support the athlete, stating in a letter that Sorsby’s vulnerability deserves the full support of the institution.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much money did Brendan Sorsby wager?
Sorsby acknowledged wagering at least $90,000 on pro and college sports over the past four years.
Which schools have already banned playing Texas Tech?
Georgia and Nebraska have explicitly forbidden their teams from scheduling Texas Tech.
What was the basis for the judge’s decision?
Judge Ken Curry ruled that Sorsby would suffer “irreparable injury” if not granted the injunction to play.
Do you believe mental health and addiction arguments should exempt athletes from gambling penalties?