Ypsilanti, Michigan, January 16, 2026
Three players from Eastern Michigan University’s men’s basketball team have been implicated in a federal indictment that unveils a widespread point-shaving scheme affecting multiple NCAA Division I teams. The former and current players face serious charges of bribery and conspiracy after allegedly manipulating game outcomes during the 2023-2024 season. The university has suspended one player and is conducting its own investigation as the NCAA looks into the larger implications of this scandal across college basketball.
Ypsilanti, Michigan – Three Eastern Michigan University (EMU) men’s basketball players have been implicated in a federal indictment concerning a widespread point-shaving scheme affecting multiple NCAA Division I teams. The indictment charges former EMU players Da’Sean Nelson and Jalen Terry, as well as current player Carlos Hart, with bribery in sporting contests and conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
Details of the Allegations
The indictment alleges that Nelson and Terry, while playing for DePaul University, engaged in point-shaving activities during the 2023-2024 season. Specifically, they are accused of manipulating game outcomes against Georgetown University and St. John’s University. In November 2024, both players transferred to EMU, where they continued to participate in the scheme, attempting to influence games against Oakland University and Wright State University.
Carlos Hart, who joined EMU in the 2025-2026 season, is implicated in point-shaving activities during his tenure at the University of New Orleans. The indictment details his involvement in a March 2024 game against Lamar University, where he is accused of intentionally underperforming to affect the game’s outcome.
University’s Response
In response to the indictment, EMU has suspended Carlos Hart from all team activities and initiated its own student conduct process. The university stated that it was unaware of any allegations during the recruitment process and emphasized that such conduct contradicts the values and expectations of Eastern Michigan Athletics.
Broader Implications
The federal indictment is part of a larger investigation into point-shaving schemes involving 39 players across 17 Division I teams, affecting over 29 games during the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 seasons. The scheme allegedly involved offering players bribes ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 per game to manipulate game outcomes, particularly against point spreads.
The NCAA has confirmed that it is conducting investigations into 40 athletes from 20 schools, resulting in multiple permanent ineligibilities. The NCAA President emphasized the organization’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of college sports and ongoing enforcement efforts.
Background on Point-Shaving Scandals
Point-shaving scandals have a history in college basketball, where players intentionally underperform to influence betting outcomes. Notably, in 2011, former San Diego State University player Brandon Johnson was sentenced to prison for his role in a game-fixing scheme.
Legal Proceedings
The individuals named in the indictment face charges including bribery, wire fraud, and conspiracy. Each defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. The investigation is ongoing, and further details may emerge as legal proceedings progress.
Impact on College Basketball
This case underscores the ongoing challenges in maintaining the integrity of college basketball amid the growing prevalence of sports betting. The NCAA continues to implement measures to detect and prevent such activities, aiming to preserve the fairness and credibility of the sport.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is point-shaving?
Point-shaving is a form of game-fixing where players intentionally underperform to influence the game’s outcome, typically to affect betting results.
How many players are involved in this scandal?
The federal indictment involves 39 players across 17 Division I teams, affecting over 29 games during the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 seasons.
What actions has Eastern Michigan University taken in response?
EMU has suspended Carlos Hart from all team activities and initiated its own student conduct process. The university stated it was unaware of any allegations during the recruitment process.
What are the potential legal consequences for those involved?
The individuals named in the indictment face charges including bribery, wire fraud, and conspiracy. Each defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. The investigation is ongoing, and further details may emerge as legal proceedings progress.
How does this scandal affect the integrity of college basketball?
This case highlights the challenges in maintaining the integrity of college basketball amid the growing prevalence of sports betting. The NCAA continues to implement measures to detect and prevent such activities, aiming to preserve the fairness and credibility of the sport.
Key Features of the Point-Shaving Scandal Involving Eastern Michigan University Basketball Players
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Players Involved | Da’Sean Nelson, Jalen Terry, Carlos Hart |
| Alleged Activities | Point-shaving during games at DePaul University and Eastern Michigan University |
| Games Affected | Georgetown University, St. John’s University, Oakland University, Wright State University |
| University’s Response | Suspension of Carlos Hart from team activities, initiation of student conduct process |
| Legal Charges | Bribery, wire fraud, conspiracy |
| Scope of Scandal | Involvement of 39 players across 17 Division I teams, affecting over 29 games during the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 seasons |
| NCAA’s Response | Investigation into 40 athletes from 20 schools, resulting in multiple permanent ineligibilities |
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