One of the central figures in a massive NCAA basketball point-shaving scheme has pleaded guilty to federal charges, according to prosecutors in Philadelphia. Jalen Smith, a Charlotte-based trainer who worked with players at professional scouting combines, admitted to wire fraud and bribery charges in federal court. His guilty plea marks the first in a sprawling case involving 26 defendants.

Smith allegedly used his connections with college players to recruit them for the scheme, promising payments of $10,000 to $30,000 per game to underperform intentionally. The fixers then bet against the players' teams, defrauding sportsbooks and other bettors. Federal prosecutors say the scheme involved more than 39 players from 17 different NCAA Division I men's basketball teams across more than 40 schools, including Tulane University and DePaul University.

According to court documents, the conspiracy began with two games in the Chinese Basketball Association in 2023 before expanding to NCAA games. The fixers wagered millions of dollars, collecting 'substantial proceeds' while paying out hundreds of thousands in bribes. Smith personally traveled to deliver cash payments, including a $32,000 handoff to players in Louisiana. The case comes just before March Madness, when billions are wagered legally and illegally on college basketball.