UPDATE: Federal and NCAA investigators are rapidly expanding their probe into an alleged gambling operation targeting men’s college basketball games for the upcoming 2024–2025 season. This investigation follows a troubling pattern of unusual betting activity across 13 US states and one Canadian province, raising alarms about potential game-fixing schemes.
Authorities have detected a series of suspicious wagers over a six-week period, as detailed in reports from ESPN. These odd bets, often placed on first-half point spreads, predominantly involve small-conference teams, raising red flags across multiple sportsbooks. The latest suspicious activity was recorded between early December 2024 and mid-January 2025.
One significant incident occurred on December 1, 2024, when a surge of large bets favored Norfolk State to defeat Stony Brook in the first half. Bettors, many using new or dormant accounts, placed substantial sums, and Norfolk State covered the spread by halftime. This pattern of betting has persisted, with similar odd wagers on teams like Mississippi Valley State, Temple, and New Orleans—all linked to a prior NCAA investigation involving 13 former players accused of breaking gambling rules.
The investigation intensified when authorities noted a rise in cash-heavy groups at Mississippi casinos placing large bets on matches involving Tulsa and Wright State. Internal reports reveal that Caesars Entertainment, which operates several of the implicated sportsbooks, has initiated its own investigation into these connections. Just days into the inquiry, one suspect was arrested on drug and money laundering charges, later pleading guilty in a separate federal case.
A pivotal figure in this unfolding scandal is Marves Fairley, a self-proclaimed betting advisor from Mississippi. Numerous sportsbooks have identified Fairley as a central player in the suspected network, citing his betting history. However, Fairley has publicly denied any wrongdoing, asserting that his business solely involves providing betting picks.
The US Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania appears poised to file charges as the investigation deepens. The FBI has already begun interviewing several college athletes to assess their potential involvement in these serious allegations of game-fixing.
Industry watchdog IC360 has raised concerns about the integrity of the betting market, praising the collaboration between regulators and sportsbooks while highlighting alarming betting behaviors. In response, the NCAA has urged more states to restrict proposition bets on college athletes and take stronger action against offshore betting operations.
As the new college basketball season kicks off on November 3, 2025, federal and college authorities are on high alert to prevent a repeat of last winter’s suspicious betting activities. This developing situation underscores the critical need for a coordinated effort among leagues, regulators, and the betting industry to maintain the integrity of college sports.
Stay tuned for further updates on this urgent investigation as it unfolds.