A Texas judge has issued a temporary injunction preventing the NCAA from permanently banning Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby. This ruling allows Sorsby to rejoin the Texas Tech team and prepare for the upcoming season.
Sorsby, who previously admitted to wagering on the Indiana Hoosiers while he was part of the team, filed a lawsuit in Lubbock County after the NCAA rejected a request from Texas Tech to reinstate him. He transferred to Texas Tech after spending two seasons at Cincinnati, where he had also transferred following his time at Indiana University. His NIL deal at Texas Tech is reportedly worth over $5 million.
The NCAA has strict regulations regarding student-athletes and gambling, categorizing any bets placed on their own teams as a severe violation. Sorsby reportedly made at least 40 bets on his own team while at IU and wagered a total of around $9,000 on college football games.
In his lawsuit, Sorsby claims that the NCAA has mishandled his case and that not allowing him to play would harm his mental health. Judge Ken Curry acknowledged that Sorsby has a strong case for relief, emphasizing the importance of participation in a Division I football program for his development.
While the ruling allows Sorsby to play, questions remain about the impact it will have on his mental well-being, especially considering his admission of anxiety related to his gambling issues. As he prepares to lead Texas Tech, the reactions from fans during away games against conference rivals may pose additional challenges for him.