NCAA appeals Texas Tech QB Brendan Sorsby injunction in gambling suspension case

The NCAA filed an “accelerated” appeal late Monday after a Texas judge granted Texas Tech University quarterback Brendan Sorsby a temporary injunction in his eligibility dispute. The ruling allows Sorsby to participate in limited early-season action for Texas Tech University while the broader case proceeds.

Sorsby was previously suspended by the NCAA earlier this year after admitting to wagering thousands of dollars on football games, including contests involving Indiana University, where he played as a freshman. His attorneys argued that continued exclusion from competition would hinder his recovery from gambling addiction. Judge Ken Curry agreed in part, suggesting a brief suspension covering the first two games of the season.

The NCAA and president Charlie Baker criticized the ruling, warning it carries “damaging, far-reaching and broadly destabilizing ramifications … which undermines and corrupts the integrity of sports.”

Sorsby’s case is being closely watched as the NCAA seeks stronger legal backing from Congress regarding enforcement of rules governing name, image and likeness (NIL), revenue sharing, and transfer portal activity. He is also projected to earn nearly $5 million in NIL deals this season.

Sorsby’s appeal outcome could shape future NCAA enforcement of gambling violations.