2-5-2013
Depending on how you view the situation, the current NCAA investigation of allegations against the University of Miami has impacted three recruiting classes. In November 2012, we reported between 8 to 17 players chose other schools over the University of Miami due to impending sanctions. We can now more accurately state that between 11 to 18 players made decisions to attend schools other than Miami due to pending sanctions. Coaches tell us the cloud hanging over Miami is constantly used aganist them by other schools. FSU’s Jimbo Fisher is specifically mentioned as one who points out the NCAA investigation to recruits considering Miami.
On January 23, 2013, the New York Times and other media reported that Mark Emmert, the N.C.A.A.’s president, referred to the conduct of his investigators as, “shocking” and “stunning,” in regards to their handling of the Miami investigation. According to Emmert, the NCAA violated their own rules during the Miami investigation.
The investigation centered around Nevin Shapiro, a one-time Miami booster and convicted Ponzi schemer who received a 20 year prison sentence. Shapiro indicated that he gave cash, gifts and provided benefits to several University of Miami players. A few months ago the NCAA received invoices for legal services provided by the criminal defense attorney representing Shapiro. Hiring the attorney had not been approved and Everett noted investigative staff members obtained information from a bankruptcy proceeding that otherwise the NCAA would not have had access.
But this is not the first time that the NCAA’s tactics have been called into question. According to Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Frederick Shaller, the USC investigation was “malicious.” USC assistant coach, Todd McNair was accused of wrongdoing and subsequently sued the NCAA for loss of wages and future employment opportunities. The judge agreed the investigation was over the top and that the NCAA relied on inaccurate information to attack McNair. The NCAA is appealing the judge’s decision in this case.
Several weeks ago, the NCAA threatened the University of Miami that if ex-players who are no longer with the program do not cooperate with their investigation, they would consider all of the allegations voiced by Shapiro against them as being accurate. Because they have no subpoena power, they were attempting to bully the University. They went out of their way to intimidate and condemn USC and it appears they are going to extraordinary means, even if they are unethical to hammer the University of Miami.
In our opinion, Miami has already placed more sanctions on themselves, including the loss of potential recruits than the indiscretions would warrant. Since they have already lost numerous quality players to other programs, the NCAA should just move on.
Links:
Charles Arnold and
R.J. Intindola