Jalen Smith, 30, was sentenced to six years in federal prison for his involvement in a point-fixing scheme that manipulated college basketball games and profited millions. This sentencing marks the initial consequence of an extensive investigation into a network of professional gamblers and college players accused of benefiting from fixed games, as announced by Pennsylvania prosecutors on Tuesday.
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Smith played a pivotal role in fixing games during the 2023-24 and 2024-25 NCAA Division I basketball seasons. He recruited players by offering them substantial payments to underperform, while bettors placed wagers against the teams, defrauding sportsbooks and other gamblers. Smith pleaded guilty earlier this year to charges of bribery and wire fraud.
As the 2026-27 NCAA basketball season approaches, the implications of the sentencing resonate, with billions expected to be wagered legally and illegally on games across the country. The growth of gambling in both collegiate and professional sports has posed challenges for law enforcement, regulators, and sports leagues. Wayne A. Jacobs, special agent in charge of the FBI's Philadelphia office, emphasized that the sentencing serves as a warning to those exploiting athletes for personal gain, stating it undermines the integrity of sports.
Smith's attorney, Rocco Cipparone, noted that Smith took responsibility for his actions and expressed remorse during the hearing. The federal judge acknowledged Smith's apology, resulting in a lighter sentence than what the prosecution had sought.
The scheme reportedly implicated nearly 30 NCAA basketball games involving institutions like DePaul University, State University of New York at Buffalo, and Tulane University. Prosecutors allege that Smith and at least 26 other defendants wagered millions and paid out hundreds of thousands in bribes, typically between $10,000 and $30,000 per game, to players. Players deemed as underdogs were specifically targeted to ensure specific spread outcomes because the bribes outweighed their legitimate sponsorship earnings.
Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, Smith had connections with local basketball players whom he trained for professional scouting combines, utilizing these ties in the scheme. The point-shaving arrangement led to over $3 million in fraudulent wagers. In addition to his gambling charges, Smith also pleaded guilty to a separate felony gun possession charge and is mandated to pay $1.1 million in restitution to gambling platforms affected by the scheme. The crackdown involved not just Smith but also over a dozen former college players and four current players.