Brendan Sorsby has had a rough few months, and the road ahead isn't getting any easier. The NCAA denied his request to regain eligibility for the 2026 college football season, ruling him permanently ineligible under sports-betting regulations introduced in 2023.
The violation traces back to wagers placed on Indiana Hoosiers football games in 2022, when Sorsby was redshirting as a true freshman with the program. Under current NCAA rules, betting on games involving your own team carries permanent ineligibility.
Texas Tech University isn't ready to accept that outcome. University president Lawrence Schovanec confirmed in a letter that the school will appeal the decision and continues to fight for Sorsby's reinstatement.
Sorsby has also filed a lawsuit against the NCAA seeking an injunction that would allow him to play in 2026. A hearing is currently scheduled for June 1 in Lubbock District Court.
Rob Gray-Imagn Images
Sorsby Speaks Out After Completing Gambling Addiction Treatment
All of this is happening as Sorsby works through something much more personal. He completed treatment for gambling addiction at Algamus Recovery Services last week after stepping away from the Texas Tech program last month to enter rehab. Following that, he released a statement that was direct and honest about where he stands.
"While I accept responsibility for my behavior and know that I have a lot of work ahead of me, for the first time in many years I feel more free and no longer fully at the mercy of my addiction," Sorsby wrote. "This is the start of a new beginning that I feel fortunate to have. I know recovery from addiction is a long road, and I hope that my experience has, in even some small way, reduced the stigma associated with speaking up about addiction and getting help. I am committed to my ongoing treatment and being a resource to many other student-athletes and other kids out there dealing with gambling addiction and other mental health issues."
Sorsby credited his coaches, teammates and the university for standing by him through the process. He plans to return to campus in Lubbock and use the resources available through Texas Tech's Center for Students in Addiction Recovery as part of his ongoing treatment.
Sorsby reportedly placed thousands of wagers through gambling apps over several years, with bets on Indiana games during his freshman season at the center of the NCAA's investigation.
The June 1 court hearing will be a significant moment. If the injunction is granted, Sorsby could suit up for the Texas Tech Red Raiders in 2026. If not, the appeal process continues with the NCAA.
