Alabama State’s star Amarr Knox and three teammates—Shawn Fulcher, Corey Hines and Tony Madlock—now face permanent ineligibility after the NCAA found they accepted money to fix a December 5, 2024 game against Southern Miss. The officials say the quartet received $2,000 from two bettors and later received payment.

Knox lifted Alabama State to its first NCAA tournament win with a late layup, while Hines and Madlock topped the team in scoring that season. Fulcher, a reserve, also played a role. The scandal emerged after Hines transferred to Temple, who tipped off the NCAA after FBI‑issued texts surfaced during his time at Alabama State.

The NCAA’s ruling bars the four players from any collegiate competition, ending their brief careers. Southern Miss won 81-64, a six‑point favorite. Two bettors faced federal charges for wire fraud and bribery. Alabama State must rebuild its roster and reputation after the first‑round loss to Saint Francis in the 2025 First Four.

The findings highlight how even small‑budget programs are vulnerable to gambling influence. With key scorers gone, Alabama State will rely on incoming transfers and freshmen to fill gaps. The incident may prompt stricter monitoring across mid‑major conferences, as the NCAA seeks to curb future corruption.