Brendan Sorsby, who played as quarterback for the Cincinnati Bearcats during the 2024 and 2025 seasons, is facing NCAA ineligibility due to allegations of extensive gambling. Reports indicate that Sorsby, a native of the Dallas area, placed bets totaling over $90,000 over four years, including during his time at the University of Cincinnati.
NCAA Investigation and Consequences
The NCAA has strict rules prohibiting athletes from placing sports bets, and violations result in permanent bans from collegiate sports. Sorsby’s ineligibility was confirmed in April after he transferred to Texas Tech. The NCAA’s decision came as part of an ongoing investigation into his gambling activities.
According to ESPN, Sorsby admitted to placing at least 2,900 bets while at Indiana University, including on Indiana football games, though he claims he never bet on games in which he played. His gambling continued at the University of Cincinnati, where he allegedly wagered over $60,000 using a FanDuel account registered to his brother-in-law.
Addressing Gambling Addiction
Sorsby has openly acknowledged his gambling addiction, which he says began in high school. He voluntarily entered a 35-day rehabilitation program in Arizona, which he has since completed. His attorneys argue that his gambling addiction should be treated as a mental health condition, and they are seeking his reinstatement for the 2026 season.
Sorsby has expressed a willingness to continue treatment and work with the NCAA to educate other athletes about gambling risks. However, experts suggest that his chances of reinstatement are slim.
Impact on Career
Despite the controversy, Sorsby remains on Texas Tech’s roster. He was ranked as ESPN’s No. 1 player in the NCAA transfer portal and was expected to earn $5 million in the 2026 season. The situation underscores the growing concern over gambling addiction among student-athletes and the rapid evolution of the online gambling market.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.