Fansided

A look back at four infamous scandals in college sports

By Dani Bostick

Oct 4, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Miami Hurricanes helmet on the field before a game against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 4, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Miami Hurricanes helmet on the field before a game against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 1, 2015; Tallahassee, FL, USA; The Miami Hurricanes fans hold signs expressing his desire for the return of former Hurricanes football head coach Butch Davis (not pictured) in the second half against the Florida State Seminoles at the Donald L. Tucker Center. The Seminoles won 55-54. Mandatory Credit: Phil Sears-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 1, 2015; Tallahassee, FL, USA; The Miami Hurricanes fans hold signs expressing his desire for the return of former Hurricanes football head coach Butch Davis (not pictured) in the second half against the Florida State Seminoles at the Donald L. Tucker Center. The Seminoles won 55-54. Mandatory Credit: Phil Sears-USA TODAY Sports /

University of Miami

Nevin Shapiro and his illegal booster

Wealthy businessman and booster Nevin Shapiro invested a lot in the University of Miami Hurricanes football team over several years until 2010. The source of his wealth was a $930 million Ponzi scheme. His investments in the Hurricanes included stays in upscale hotels, to go along with jewelry, parties, prostitutes, strippers, and enough debauchery to earn him the nickname Caligula.

In exchange for his largesse, he had ego-building contact with Hurricanes players, his name placed on a student lounge, and perks like sideline access at games. He also claimed that he had insider information from Hurricanes coaching staff, which he used to improve his odds in sports betting.

The 2011 NCAA investigation did not find evidence to support Shapiro’s claims about insider information from coaches The investigators did determine that high school players had accepted gifts from Shapiro while they were being recruited. Players on the team also received gifts and perks. The athletic program was faulted for letting the situation with the boosters get so far out of hand.

Both the football and basketball teams faced three years of probation, loss of scholarships and the suspension of coaches. Several players were suspended as well.

Where are they now? 

Shapiro is in jail. One of the Hurricanes’ assistants during the scandal was Clint Hurtt, who is now a position coach for the Chicago Bears. Many of the suspended players have gone on to play in the NFL including Sean Spence of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Travis Benjamin of the Cleveland Browns.

Next: Might as well bring this full circle

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