A man who helped rig college basketball games in a massive point-shaving scheme has been sentenced to six years in federal prison. Jalen Smith, 30, played a key role in fixing games during the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons by recruiting players to underperform and placing bets against their teams. This scheme defrauded sportsbooks and other gamblers out of millions. Smith pleaded guilty to bribery and wire fraud charges earlier this year. The scheme involved nearly 30 games from schools like DePaul, Buffalo, and Tulane, with payments to players ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 per game. Overall, the fraudulent wagers totaled over $3 million. Smith must also pay $1.1 million in restitution. The sentencing comes as the new NCAA season begins, highlighting ongoing challenges in combating sports gambling. The FBI emphasized that such actions undermine the integrity of sports.
