The Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) has taken action against Samuel Silverman, a former Fresno State men’s basketball team manager and DraftKings employee. Silverman has been arrested following an investigation into suspicious BetMGM wagers involving college proposition bets. He was allegedly part of a larger scheme involving four other individuals, including a Fresno State player.
Investigators Quickly Connected the Dots
The investigation began when the NCAA alerted Nevada regulators regarding suspicious bets tied to Fresno State player Michael Robinson. Silverman allegedly used his former ties to the team to recruit the athlete, a step necessary to his sports betting scheme. Robinson reportedly deliberately underperformed in key areas, allowing the other members to profit from strategically placed wagers.
This scheme was made possible by prop bets that allowed users to wager on nearly every aspect of the game, including individual player stats. The betting ring allegedly made tens of thousands in profits. However, their activities did not go unnoticed, and investigators soon discovered several financial transactions linking participants in the scheme.
Out of the five suspects, only Silverman has been arrested and faces charges. He stands accused of fraud and conspiracy to cheat at gambling. Silverman has been released on bail and is due for another court hearing on August 4. It remains unclear whether the other individuals involved in the scheme will face charges or disciplinary action.
Proposition Bets Remain Vulnerable to Abuse
DraftKings has distanced itself from the incident, noting that Silverman was no longer part of the company and that the suspicious wagers were placed at another sportsbook. The operator used this opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to integrity. However, the fact remains that proposition bets remain one of the most vulnerable types of wagers when it comes to sports integrity.
We strongly condemn the alleged conduct of these former employees and remain committed to protecting the integrity of sports and sports betting.
DraftKings statement
A similar incident in the NFL earlier this week also demonstrated how wagering can threaten sports integrity. Arizona Cardinals executive Ryan Gold was suspended indefinitely after an investigation accused him of using his position to share sensitive team information and engage in prohibited betting activities. Such data can give bettors a significant but unfair advantage.
Such incidents have not gone unnoticed. Several states are now moving to restrict college athlete prop bets. Lawmakers argue that such a measure would reduce gambling-related harm, preserve the integrity of sports, and reduce harassment. College athletes remain especially vulnerable, which is why many leagues are doubling down on education efforts, with a few also pushing for a ban on prop bets.