Former Players Charged in Basketball Prop Bet Scheme
Three suspects face felony charges linked to an alleged plot to manipulate college basketball statistics.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Basketball
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Authorities have charged two former college basketball players and a sportsbook trader with felony prop bet fixing following an investigation into a 2025 game. The scheme allegedly involved manipulating player statistics to profit from sports wagers.
Why it matters
The case highlights the ongoing integrity challenges facing collegiate sports as legalized gambling becomes more accessible. It also underscores the severe criminal repercussions for athletes and employees who attempt to influence game outcomes.
The alleged scheme generated $15,950 in net winnings after Mykell Robinson scored only 3 points in 21 minutes of play. Conviction on these Class C felony charges carries a potential prison sentence of one to five years.
The players
Steven Vasquez
He is a former college basketball player who previously played at Fresno State and later attended a university in San Jose.
Matthew J. Martin
He is a former sports trader who was employed at the DraftKings Las Vegas office during 2025.
Mykell Robinson
He is a former college basketball player who was a roommate of Vasquez during the 2023-24 season.
Samuel Silverman
He is a former Fresno State team manager who served in that capacity during the 2022-23 season.
The details
Prosecutors allege that Steven Vasquez, Matthew J. Martin, and Samuel Silverman conspired to cheat at a gambling game by betting on the under for Robinson's statistics. Following the NCAA's investigation into the 2025 Fresno State versus Colorado State game, the organization ruled both Vasquez and Robinson ineligible.
Timeline
Samuel Silverman was arrested in May 2026.
An arrest warrant was issued for Mykell Robinson in August 2026.
Steven Vasquez and Matthew J. Martin were arrested in September 2026.
The Big Picture
This criminal case represents a formal legal escalation of the internal findings established during the 2025 NCAA investigation into Fresno State basketball.
The charges highlight the risk of future eligibility sanctions for any student-athlete found participating in unauthorized wagering activities. The ongoing legal proceedings may also prompt stricter internal monitoring for employees working in Las Vegas sportsbooks.
The takeaway
Integrity in collegiate sports is strictly monitored, and participation in gambling schemes carries long-term legal and academic consequences. Aspiring athletes should remain aware that any attempt to manipulate game data for financial gain is considered a serious criminal offense.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in Basketball across the collegiate landscape.
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Do you trust that professional sports betting remains fair despite recent reports of athlete manipulation?
