Oklahoma State University (OSU) has been found guilty of major NCAA infractions and is currently serving a “show cause” penalty that prevents it from participating in athletic activities. The school has been found to have provided impermissible benefits and preferential treatment to student athletes. This article will discuss the details of the case, the penalties imposed, and the potential implications of the case.
Background of the Case
In 2019, the NCAA’s Division I Committee on Infractions (COI) found that Oklahoma State had violated NCAA rules by providing impermissible benefits and preferential treatment to student-athletes. The COI found that the school had provided improper benefits to student-athletes in the form of cash payments, payments for summer school classes, and other impermissible benefits. The COI also found that Oklahoma State had provided preferential treatment to certain student-athletes in the form of access to academic and athletic resources, as well as preferential access to educational opportunities.
Penalties Imposed
The NCAA imposed a “show cause” penalty on Oklahoma State, which means that the school must demonstrate why it should not be disqualified from participating in athletics. The NCAA also imposed a two-year probation on the university and a fine of $60,000. The school is also required to develop a corrective plan to address the violations.
Impact on Student-Athletes
The most significant impact of this case is on the student-athletes who were found to have received impermissible benefits and preferential treatment. The NCAA has declared that any student-athlete who received impermissible benefits or preferential treatment must repay the benefits and be suspended from competition for a period of time. The NCAA has also declared that the school must vacate any wins in which the student-athletes participated while receiving the impermissible benefits or preferential treatment. This could potentially have a significant impact on the school’s athletic program, as it could lead to the loss of wins and a decrease in revenue.
Implications of the Case
The NCAA’s decision in this case has far-reaching implications for the school, its athletic program, and the NCAA as a whole. The decision serves as a warning to all schools that NCAA rules must be followed and that any violations will be met with serious consequences. It also highlights the importance of universities and athletic departments providing a level playing field for all student-athletes, as any preferential treatment or benefits could lead to severe sanctions.
Conclusion
Oklahoma State University has been found guilty of major NCAA infractions and is currently serving a “show cause” penalty that prevents it from participating in athletics. The school has been found to have provided impermissible benefits and preferential treatment to student-athletes and is facing serious penalties, including a two-year probation and a fine of $60,000. The case has significant implications for the school, its athletic program, and the NCAA as a whole and serves as a warning to all schools to not violate NCAA rules.