Jalen Smith sentenced to six years for NCAA basketball betting scheme

Jalen Smith, a 30-year-old former basketball trainer from North Carolina, has been sentenced to six years in federal prison for his central role in a massive NCAA Division I point-shaving scheme. The sentencing, handed down by U.S. District Judge Nitza I. Quiñones Alejandro in Philadelphia, marks the first penalty resulting from a sprawling investigation into rigged college basketball games.

Smith pleaded guilty to bribery and wire fraud, having recruited players during the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons to purposefully underperform in exchange for payments typically ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 per game. These actions allowed bettors to wager against the players' teams, defrauding sportsbooks and other gamblers. Authorities stated the scheme involved nearly 30 NCAA games and at least 17 universities, including DePaul University, Tulane University, the University at Buffalo, and North Carolina A&T State University.

In addition to the betting charges, Smith pleaded guilty to the illegal possession of a handgun discovered during a federal search of his home. Prosecutors noted that the operation involved at least 26 other defendants and resulted in millions of dollars in wagers. Smith’s attorney stated that his client took full responsibility and apologized for his actions.