Investigation Leads to Lifetime Bans and Heavy Fines
LONDON – The U.K. Gambling Commission’s Sports Betting Intelligence Unit has supported extensive investigations into match-fixing and regulatory breaches within the former British Basketball League. Led by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) and the British Basketball Federation (BBF), the inquiry uncovered significant corruption, resulting in severe penalties for multiple players.
Key Findings & Sanctions
- Five former Surrey Scorchers players were found guilty of manipulating match outcomes and failing to report corrupt activity during the 2022–2023 season. Their penalties range from 10-year bans to lifetime suspensions.
- Two players, Quincy Taylor and Charleston Dobbs, received lifetime bans and financial penalties, with FIBA extending the sanctions globally.
- Shakem Johnston, Padiet Wang, and Joshua McFolley were also sanctioned by FIBA, receiving either lifetime or long-term suspensions.
- Dean Wanliss, another former player, was fined and suspended for three years for betting on basketball matches between 2019–2021. This separate investigation was led by BBF, FIBA, the Spanish Basketball Federation, the GB betting industry, and the International Olympic Committee Monitoring Unit.
Commitment to Sports Integrity
The crackdown highlights the commitment of FIBA, BBF, the UK Gambling Commission, and other regulatory bodies to maintaining integrity in sports and enforcing a zero-tolerance policy against betting-related corruption. These sanctions serve as a clear warning to athletes and sports officials, reinforcing global efforts to combat fraudulent gambling activities.
