Published on: June 19, 2026, 01:27h.
Updated on: June 19, 2026, 01:27h.
- NCAA has declared former Iona basketball player Adam Njie Jr. permanently ineligible after he confessed to sharing insider information with sports bettors.
- During the investigation, Njie transferred first to Dayton and then to Hampton.
- Despite the NCAA’s lifetime ban, Hampton intends to pursue his reinstatement.
A former basketball standout for the Iona Gaels has seen his college basketball career come to an end as the NCAA has permanently revoked his eligibility due to a sports betting scandal.
Adam Njie Jr., hailing from the Bronx, always harbored ambitions of playing collegiate basketball. He began his journey at Iona University, a Division I institution within the Atlantic Athletic Conference, where he had an impressive debut season in 2024-25 as a freshman guard, standing 6’3″.
During his freshman year, he secured a starting position, averaging over 12 points and four assists per game. However, it was Njie’s off-court actions that drew significant media attention.
Allegations of Sports Betting Violations
Following a lengthy inquiry, it was determined that Njie had provided inside information to sports bettors while representing Iona.
At one point, Njie acknowledged informing bettors, who placed a $15,500 wager on a game, that he would intentionally play poorly in the first half to ensure Iona failed to cover the spread. Ultimately, he reconsidered and chose not to follow through with the plan.
The wary bettors allegedly threatened him with violence, leading Njie to indicate he would assist with an upcoming game. Yet again, he ultimately opted against purposely underperforming.
The NCAA initiated an investigation after receiving a tip-off regarding suspicious betting patterns from the Mississippi Gaming Commission, where these bets were placed, and identified Njie as the key insider.
“Disclosing information to a bettor violates NCAA rules and is regarded as equivalent to point shaving from the perspective of NCAA enforcement, irrespective of the athlete’s decision to carry out the act,” stated the NCAA.
The NCAA further mentioned that Njie consented to his “permanent ineligibility.”
“Although the Committee on Infractions currently does not impose penalties for student-athletes who flout NCAA regulations, involvement in such violations carries significant repercussions. Student-athletes found to breach NCAA regulations render themselves ineligible and can only regain eligibility through the support of an NCAA institution,” the statement highlighted.
Post his freshman season, Njie transferred from the Catholic institution in Upstate New York to Dayton Flyers in Ohio. However, after the NCAA alerted Dayton officials about the investigation, he was sidelined.
Njie later moved to Hampton University in Virginia, where the administration has announced plans to pursue his reinstatement.
Recognized for Leadership and Impact
Njie’s biography on Iona’s website highlights his reputation as a loyal and impactful team player, earning praise from his high school coach for his dedication, skills, and leadership qualities.
One of his fondest moments in sports, as expressed by Njie, was receiving his first Division I scholarship offer. His aspirations after college include aiming for an NBA career and becoming the “first millionaire in my family.”