A federal judge in Lubbock has recused himself from the case involving Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby, who is accused of wagering on games featuring his own team.
Recusal to Preserve Impartiality
Judge Phillip Hays, a lifelong Lubbock resident and Texas Tech graduate with three decades of legal practice, concluded that his personal connections to the community could create the appearance of bias.
Sorsby, a redshirt sophomore who has publicly acknowledged a gambling addiction, admitted to placing bets on his team and teammates during the 2022 season while he was sidelined for a year.
The NCAA defines permanent ineligibility as the appropriate sanction for wagering on one's own team, a rule the organization maintains is vital to preserving the integrity of college sports.
By stepping aside, the judge eliminates any potential conflict of interest and avoids the public scrutiny that often accompanies cases where judicial officials have personal ties to the parties involved.