Six former British Basketball League (BBL) players are facing severe disciplinary action after an extensive investigation into match-fixing. The UK Gambling Commission’s Sports Betting Intelligence Unit (SBIU) led the inquiry. They worked closely with the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) and the British Basketball Federation (BBF).
The probe revealed that five of the sanctioned individuals were members of the Surrey Scorchers. These players were found guilty of either actively manipulating match outcomes or failing to report knowledge of corrupt practices. The incidents occurred between 2019 and 2023. They included cases where players allegedly accepted money to influence game results or placed bets on matches themselves.
Quincy Taylor and Charleston Dobbs received lifetime bans from all basketball activities within the UK. Both were also fined £3,000 (approximately $4,074), and neither appealed the ruling.
Shakem Johnston and Padiet Wang were issued global lifetime suspensions, reflecting the seriousness of the offenses. Joshua McFolley received a worldwide ban lasting until September 2034.
Dean Wallis, though a registered player in Spain, was also implicated. He was fined £3,000 and suspended from basketball activities. Additionally, he was recommended to complete anti-corruption and betting awareness training. Due to his registration in Spain, the Spanish Basketball Federation (FEB) and the International Olympic Committee’s Monitoring Unit were brought into the investigation.
The case underlines the growing global cooperation among sports and regulatory bodies to protect the integrity of competitive play. It also demonstrates that match-fixing, regardless of where it occurs, carries serious and far-reaching consequences.
Meanwhile, in Asia, the Hong Kong government has launched a month-long public consultation on the potential legalisation of basketball betting. This is part of its broader review of gaming regulations in the region.
