On July 4, the Federal Bureau of Investigation arrested former West Virginia guard Kerr Kriisa, 25, on suspicion of fraud related to his collegiate career.
Kriisa, a native of Estonia, played for the University of Arizona, West Virginia University, the University of Kentucky and the University of Cincinnati before turning professional. In his final season with the Mountaineers he averaged 11.0 points, 2.5 rebounds and 4.7 assists over 23 games, but he was sidelined for the first nine contests after the NCAA determined he had accepted impermissible benefits at Arizona.
Extradition Prospects
Federal prosecutors have indicated they will seek Kriisa’s extradition to West Virginia to face the charges, a move that could subject him to a prison term if convicted.
The indictment alleges that Kriisa participated in a scheme to manipulate financial aid and recruiting incentives, a violation that carries both state and federal penalties. If the extradition is approved, the case will proceed through West Virginia’s criminal courts, where a trial could determine the extent of his liability.
After going undrafted, the guard signed a contract with a professional club in Estonia and was slated to compete in this summer’s edition of The Basketball Tournament. His participation had been anticipated as a showcase of his skills on the international stage.