NCAA in the headlines again as gambling, eligibility, and rule battles explode across college sports. Big bets, big penalties, big questions.
Penn State hockey player Gavin McKenna, 18, was charged with misdemeanor assault following an incident in State College after a game. He allegedly punched a man, causing injuries that required surgery. The charge was later withdrawn after investigation. McKenna remains a key player for the team.
Richard Tillman, 44, of San Jose, pleaded guilty to setting fire to a U.S. Post Office in July 2025. He rammed his vehicle into the building and set it ablaze, claiming to make a point to the U.S. government. No injuries occurred. Sentencing is scheduled for April 27, 2026.
North Carolina's football team has recruited four new quarterbacks for the 2026 season following a 4-8 record last year. The new signings include transfer and freshman players, aiming to strengthen the team after a challenging season with multiple transfers and limited success in passing yards.
Flag football is rapidly expanding in popularity, backed by the NFL, NCAA, and IOC. It is progressing through NCAA programs, gaining Olympic recognition, and promoting inclusivity, especially for women and youth, amid a broader cultural shift towards contactless sports.
Prediction market platform Polymarket faces scrutiny after reports of harassment and threats against journalists involved in reporting on Israeli missile incidents. The threats stem from disputes over the accuracy of reports on a missile strike near Beit Shemesh, with some users attempting to pressure journalists to alter their coverage. Polymarket condemned the behavior.
The NCAA Tournament has attracted its highest TV audience since 1993, with an average of 10.3 million viewers across four networks, up 9% from last year. The Elite Eight game between UConn and Duke peaked at nearly 19 million viewers. Despite fewer upsets, interest remains high.
The NCAA has introduced new rules affecting college athletes' eligibility, including a requirement for prospects to withdraw from opt-in professional drafts. The changes follow recent legal cases and proposals for extended eligibility, with ongoing debates about legal protections and the impact on college sports.
Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby has retained antitrust attorney Jeffrey Kessler as he faces an NCAA investigation into alleged gambling on college and pro sports. The case, tied to past wagers at Indiana and Cincinnati, could jeopardize his college eligibility and prompt a potential NFL supplemental draft if not resolved. Sorsby is currently undergoing treatment for a gambling addiction.