Federal Betting Case Casts Spotlight on KSU Basketball Program and Athlete Integrity

KENNESAW, Ga. — A sweeping federal investigation into an alleged college basketball betting scheme has placed Kennesaw State University in the national spotlight, after court documents identified three individuals tied to the KSU men’s basketball program among those charged or referenced in the case.

Federal prosecutors allege that 20 people were involved in a scheme to rig NCAA and international basketball games, including 15 current or former Division I players. According to an indictment filed in federal court in Philadelphia, three individuals connected to Kennesaw State—Simeon Cottle, Demond Robinson, and a third individual identified only as Person No. 12—were recruited in February 2024 to influence game outcomes by underperforming in exchange for cash payments.

Court records allege that the players were targeted by so-called “fixers,” who offered bribes ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 per game. Prosecutors say the fixers included individuals with backgrounds in player training and coaching, as well as gamblers and sports handicappers who allegedly coordinated betting activity.

Cottle, a senior and KSU’s leading scorer, is accused of communicating with other defendants about a “point-shaving scheme,” according to court filings. Prosecutors allege that both Cottle and Robinson may have received tens of thousands of dollars in payments connected to the scheme.

The charges—bribery and conspiracy to commit wire fraud—come amid intensified scrutiny of sports betting in college athletics. The NCAA has reported dozens of gambling-related investigations nationwide, with at least 11 student-athletes from seven schools permanently losing eligibility after being found to have bet on their own performances or manipulated games. In a statement responding to the indictments, NCAA President Charlie Baker emphasized the growing scope of integrity investigations and warned of the risks posed by legalized sports betting, particularly collegiate prop bets, which critics say make student-athletes vulnerable to exploitation.

While the alleged scheme spans multiple universities—including Tulane, St. Louis University, DePaul, and Fordham—the involvement of KSU players raises difficult questions for the university about compliance oversight, athlete education, and safeguards against gambling-related misconduct.

As of now, Kennesaw State University has not publicly detailed any disciplinary actions related to the case, and the allegations remain unproven in court. However, the case has already prompted broader conversations on campus and across college athletics about the pressures facing student-athletes and the need for stronger protections against predatory betting practices.

Federal authorities continue to investigate the matter, and additional developments are expected as the case moves forward.