The Texas Tech quarterback under investigation by the NCAA has hired a well-known attorney who was involved in previous litigation against the association. He represented Tom Brady during the 2015 “Deflategate” scandal.
Brendan Sorsby, who is transferring in from Indiana University, is now seeking treatment for gambling addiction after allegedly making several wagers, including betting on his own team.
High-octane attorney Jeffrey Kessler is now representing Sorsby as the investigation plays out, according to CBS Sports.
Deep History In Sports Litigation
Sorsby allegedly made thousands of wagers while a member of the Hoosiers, beginning in 2022. The stakes are high for Texas Tech, which reached the College Football Playoffs last season and is expected again to be a top contender for the Big 12 championship.
The Red Raiders spent $5 million to bring Sorsby to Lubbock after a solid 2025 season. His prospects of suiting up for the team appear to be in jeopardy. Under NCAA rules, a player found to be betting on his or her own team faces “permanent loss of collegiate eligibility in all sports.”
Kessler, though, has proven to be a tough opponent for college sports’ governing body. He was the lead attorney in the 2025 landmark case that forced the NCAA into a revenue-sharing agreement with college athletes.
Kessler has a deep history in sports litigation and helped form the NBA, NFL and NHL players associations. He also represented double amputee Oscar Pistorius in his efforts to run in the London Olympics and former NFL quarterback Michael Vick in a roster bonus dispute with the Atlanta Falcons.
Texas Tech Shows Support For Sorsby
Texas Tech has also reportedly retained legal counsel as the investigation continues. The Red Raiders have expressed support for Sorsby as he enters treatment.
“We love Brendan and support his decision to seek professional help,” head coach Joey McGuire said. “Taking this step requires courage, and our primary focus is on him as a person. Our program is behind Brendan as he prioritizes his health.”
The NCAA hasn’t offered a timeline for when the investigation might conclude.
This is just the latest college sports betting scandal. Authorities charged numerous college basketball players in a point-shaving scheme in January.
In November, the association also reversed a previous move allowing athletes and coaching staff to wager on professional sports.
