The NCAA has recently disclosed findings from an investigation that uncovered a complex point-shaving scheme involving former Fordham men’s college basketball players. The investigation revealed how an alleged gambling ring, currently under federal indictment, approached players under the guise of being NIL agents.
The scheme targeted a Fordham game against Duquesne in 2024. Two former Rams players, Elijah Gray and Will Richardson, were found permanently ineligible as a result.
The Unveiling of the Point-Shaving Plot
On April 28, 2026, the NCAA released a report on its investigation into the point-shaving plot involving Elijah Gray and Will Richardson. The investigation found that these players allegedly communicated with known bettors and a former NBA player to throw a game against Duquesne on February 23, 2024.
They were offered payments ranging from $10,000 to $15,000 each.
Elijah Gray’s Involvement
Elijah Gray played for Fordham from 2022 to 2024 before transferring to Temple and Wisconsin. He admitted to agreeing to lose the game but claimed he ultimately played with his normal effort in Fordham’s win.
Gray acknowledged violating ethical conduct rules by providing information to a known bettor. He is among 29 players charged in a federal gambling indictment and has pleaded guilty, awaiting sentencing.
Will Richardson’s Role
Will Richardson played three seasons at Fordham from 2022 to 2025 before transferring to the University of Albany. He did not cooperate with the NCAA investigation and knowingly provided false information.
When reached by ESPN, Richardson declined to comment.
The Modus Operandi of the Betting Ring
The NCAA’s investigation revealed that two known bettors involved in the scheme approached players under the pretense of being NIL agents. Gray disclosed that one of the bettors messaged him on Instagram ahead of the Duquesne game, asking him to underperform and recruit teammates to do the same.
Gray recognized one of the bettors from AAU tournaments in his hometown of Charlotte, North Carolina.
Involvement of Antonio Blakeney and Other Bettors
Former NBA player Antonio Blakeney has been charged in the scheme. Marves Fairley, one of the bettors involved, has indicated that he will plead guilty to the charges.
Fairley, along with betting associate Shane Hennen, is also charged in a federal gambling indictment centered on sharing inside information in the NBA.
Conclusion
The NCAA’s recent findings on the Fordham point-shaving plot highlight vulnerabilities in college sports.
The involvement of former NBA players and the use of NIL agents as fronts for illegal activities show serious ethical breaches.
For more detailed information on the investigation, you can read the full report on ESPN.
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