NCAA bans Fresno State players for life in betting scandal

FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – Three former Fresno State basketball players are banned for life from the NCAA after a gambling investigation involving thousands of dollars, the NCAA announced on Wednesday.

According to officials, during the 2024-25 regular season, three student-athletes who competed in men’s basketball at Fresno State and San Jose State bet on their own games.

According to the NCAA, the investigation found the student-athletes bet on one another’s games and/or provided information that enabled others to do so during the 2024-25 regular season. Officials say two of the student-athletes then manipulated their performances to ensure that certain bets were won.

Mykell Robinson, Steven Vasquez and Jalen Weaver were released from the team and no longer enrolled at Fresno State. The NCAA has also revoked eligibility permanently for the three former Fresno State basketball players.

In one instance, the NCAA says Robinson and Vasquez and a third-party conspired to bet $2,200 on Robinson’s pre-arranged underperformance, receiving a $15,950 payout.

In a statement, Fresno State says that it holds itself to the highest standards of integrity, character and sportsmanship, and has an unwavering commitment to compliance with all NCAA and conference rules.

The University proactively shared reported information concerning sports wagering activity with the NCAA and worked collaboratively with the NCAA staff throughout the investigation. While the eligibility consequences for the former student-athletes are significant, the case ultimately resulted in a Level III/Secondary violation and no sanctions for the institution. The University continues to have confidence in the Fresno State Athletics’ culture and is grateful to conclude this matter.
Fresno State Athletics

The decision means the three players can no longer play for an NCAA team unless the organization reinstates their eligibility. The NCAA adds that there are no penalties for Fresno State, San Jose State for the student-athletes’ conduct.