Iowa gambling commission launches investigation surrounding Hawkeye athletics

The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission has launched an investigation into the University of Iowa Athletics after over two dozen student-athletes were found to have participated in online sports wagering.

26 current student-athletes from the football, men’s basketball, baseball, men’s track and field, and wrestling teams, along with one full-time employee of Iowa athletics, have all been found in violation of NCAA rules and regulations. The investigation does not include any current or former coaches.

“The commission takes the integrity of gaming in the state seriously and is continuing to monitor the situation and will provide any additional information when able,” Brian Ohorilko said, via USA Today.

Shortly after the investigation of the Hawkeyes was brought to light, it was also announced that 15 Iowa State student-athletes were also found to be involved in allegations involving online sports gambling as well.

“lowa State University and its Department of Intercollegiate Athletics is aware of online sports wagering allegations involving approximately 15 of our active student-athletes from the sports of football, wrestling and track & field in violation of NCAA rules,” Iowa State Athletics wrote in a statement. “The university has notified the NCAA and will take the appropriate actions to resolve these issues.”

It’s unknown if the two instances are in connection with each other as of this report, but several of the Hawkeye baseball players will not be playing in this weekend’s series against Michigan State.

Alabama AD Greg Byrne fires head baseball coach Brad Bohannon amid betting scandal

The Alabama baseball team has made a surprising decision, firing baseball coach Brad Bohannon midseason for violating the standards, duties and responsibilities of university employees, according to a report by AL.com beat reporter Mike Rodak.

“Alabama director of athletics Greg Byrne announced he has initiated the termination process for head baseball coach Brad Bohannon for, among other things, violating the standards, duties, and responsibilities expected of University employees,” the program released in an emailed statement Thursday. “Bohannon has been relieved of all duties and Jason Jackson will serve as the interim head coach. There will be no further comment at this time pending an ongoing review.” 

The firing comes just days after news of a potential betting scandal involving suspicious betting activity on Alabama games came to light.

The reports of a potential betting scandal led SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey to release a statement at the time of his firing.

“We are aware of reports related to the suspension of wagering on Alabama baseball games,” Sankey said. “We will continue to monitor available information and any regulatory activity.

“As many states have acted to legalize sports gambling, we are reminded of the threats gambling may pose to competitive integrity. Together with our member universities, we will continue to emphasize the importance of regulating, overseeing, and providing education related to sports gambling activity.”