Oklahoma quarterback denies sports betting allegations
Oklahoma starting quarterback John Mateer has denied ever betting on sports after screenshots of past Venmo transactions referencing “sports gambling” were circulated online, according to a report by ESPN.
Mateer’s Venmo account shows him twice using the words “sports gambling” in transaction memos on 20 November 2022 while a freshman at Washington State. Both transactions were allegedly to a Venmo account for then-teammate Richard Roaten.
Mateer posted to X, “The allegations that I once participated in sports gambling are false. My previous Venmo descriptions did not accurately portray the transactions in question but were instead inside jokes between me and my friends.”
He added, “I have never bet on sports. I understand the seriousness of the matter but recognize that, taken out of context, those Venmo descriptions suggest otherwise. I can assure my teammates, coaches, and officials at the NCAA that I have not engaged in any sports gambling.”
A source told ESPN the university learned of the screenshots late Monday and is reviewing the matter.
Oklahoma Athletics said it “takes any allegations of gambling seriously and works closely with the NCAA in any situation of concern,” adding it is “unaware of any NCAA investigation and has no reason to believe there is one pending.”
NCAA rules forbid college athletes from betting on sports, which are sanctioned, with potential penalties including loss of eligibility.
The allegations follow other prominent athletes who are also being investigated for online gambling. In July, two Cleveland Guardians pitchers were placed on leave due to an online gambling probe by the MLB.
The news led to Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine calling for the banning of prop bets in the state.
Dig deeper
Charlotte Capewell brings her passion for storytelling and expertise in writing, researching, and the gambling industry to every article she writes. Her specialties include the US gambling industry, regulator legislation, igaming, and more.
Verticals:
Sectors:
Topics:
