News Summary
The University of Memphis has been penalized by the NCAA for academic integrity violations involving its men’s basketball and softball teams. These infractions have resulted in an extended probation period lasting until 2027. As part of the penalties, the men’s basketball team must vacate three wins, while the university faces a $30,000 fine and additional financial repercussions. The violations, linked to unethical actions by a former academic advisor, shed light on ongoing compliance issues for the university’s athletic programs.
Memphis, TN
The University of Memphis has been penalized by the NCAA for academic integrity violations in its men’s basketball and softball programs during the 2023-24 season. The violations led to an extension of probation for the university, which will now last until 2027, highlighting ongoing concerns about adherence to NCAA regulations.
As part of the penalties, the men’s basketball team is mandated to vacate three victories from January 25 to February 18, 2024, specifically against Wichita State, Temple, and Tulane. However, the softball program will not have to vacate any wins since it did not record any victories during the same timeframe. The university will also pay a fine of $30,000 along with an additional payment equal to 1% of its combined men’s basketball and softball budgets.
Details of the Violations
The academic integrity violations involved several players, notably former men’s basketball player Malcolm Dandridge, and softball players Ally Callahan and Aaliyah Dixon. The infractions were traced back to unethical actions by Leslie Brooks, a former academic advisor who was found to have facilitated these violations. Brooks allegedly paid Callahan and Dixon to complete academic assignments and tests that were meant for Dandridge, including $150 for a piece of coursework and $400 for multiple tests.
In a separate decision, Brooks has been issued a 10-year show-cause penalty. This signifies that she has been found responsible for significant misconduct and her case will require scrutiny if she pursues employment within the NCAA again. The investigation began when a softball athletic trainer overheard conversations among players discussing the academic issues and reported them to the authorities.
Consequences of the Violations
Following these violations, Dandridge was withheld from the final five games of the season due to eligibility issues but retained his position on the team. He had previously completed his bachelor’s degree. Consequently, the Memphis men’s basketball program missed the NCAA tournament for the first time in four seasons, finishing with a record of 3-2 during his absence.
The remaining players implicated in the violations, Callahan and Dixon, saw fluctuating participation in games during the investigation period. Callahan played in four games before the issues surfaced, while Dixon notably played in nine of the first ten games of the season before missing a significant number of games following Brooks’ termination on February 23, 2024.
Historical Context
This incident adds to a troubling history of NCAA compliance issues at the University of Memphis under the leadership of head coach Penny Hardaway. Previous infractions include controversies surrounding the eligibility of former player James Wiseman, which had already placed the program under scrutiny. The recent academic violations further undermine the integrity of the athletic programs and raise questions about the university’s commitment to maintaining NCAA standards.
Despite the measures being taken to address these violations, the penalties reflect ongoing challenges for the university as it grapples with compliance and academic integrity in its athletic departments. The extended probation period and the fines indicate a significant concern from the NCAA regarding how Memphis is managing its programs.
The university has expressed its willingness to cooperate with NCAA regulations and has recognized the necessity of resolving these matters to restore confidence in its athletic programs.
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