Federal prosecutors have charged two Kennesaw State University basketball players in a widespread NCAA point-shaving investigation. Current guard Simeon Cottle and former forward Demond Robinson allegedly agreed to underperform in a game against Queens University in exchange for bribes. The scheme involved bets on the game's first half, where the players influenced the outcome before Kennesaw State rallied to win.
On Thursday, federal authorities in Philadelphia announced an indictment charging dozens of individuals, including players from over 17 NCAA Division I teams, in a basketball game-rigging operation spanning September 2022 to January 2025. Among those named are Kennesaw State men's basketball guard Simeon Cottle, currently suspended indefinitely from team activities, and former forward Demond Robinson.
According to the indictment, fixers Jalen Smith, Alberto Laureano, and Antonio Blakeney recruited Cottle via FaceTime. Cottle then brought in Robinson and an unnamed "Person #12" to underperform in Kennesaw State's March 1, 2024, game against Queens University in Charlotte, North Carolina. In exchange, they allegedly received bribe payments.
Prosecutors detailed that the fixers bet at least $20,000 across multiple sportsbooks on Queens to cover the first-half spread of about 1.5 points, including parlays. During the first half, Queens outscored the Owls 52-39, with Cottle scoring zero points. Kennesaw State improved in the second half, outscoring Queens 52-43 to win 91-82 overall, and Cottle added 13 points.
The following day, Smith texted Cottle about delivering the payment, with around $40,000 in cash allegedly provided by a co-schemer. Efforts to involve other Kennesaw State players failed, as Cottle reported disinterest from teammates.
Kennesaw State University issued a statement: "Kennesaw State University is aware of the reports involving men's basketball student-athlete Simeon Cottle and former student-athlete Demond Robinson. Cottle has been suspended indefinitely from all team activities."
The charges include bribery, wire fraud, and conspiracy. This case follows NCAA actions banning at least 10 players for life over gambling violations this year, amid broader probes into sports betting in college athletics. A related indictment mentions 26 people charged in the scheme from 2023 to 2025, affecting games like one between University at Buffalo and Western Michigan University, though Western Michigan faces no accusations.
