The NC State Basketball Infractions Decision is Here

In July of 2019, the NCAA charged State with multiple Level 1 violations, concerning Gottfried and recruit/player Dennis Smith Jr. Since then, there has been a cloud over the program as the investigation moved ever so slowly to completion. Monday, (go figure they’d drop it on a Monday before Xmas) the decision was announced;

• No postseason ban
• $5K fine, plus .5% of basketball budget
• Reduction of scholarships by one for 2022-23 season
• Vacation of records for DSJ season
• Gottfried 1-Year show cause / Early 6-years

The Incident

It began with leaks and testimonials about how Adidas consultants had been funding recruiting at various schools. Thomas Gassnola testified in federal court, that he gave $40K payment to State assistant coach Orlando Early. That money was then given to Dennis Smith Jr and family.

There were a number of further damning texts and emails involving Gassnola, Adidas, Smith and trainer/staff.

The extent at which the NCAA said State violated rules, was contested immediately by the University and Chancellor Woodson;

“While we appreciate the NCAA Enforcement Staff’s detailed response, N.C. State remains in strong disagreement with many of the characterizations and conclusions in their Enforcement Written Reply. As we have said throughout this process, we will vigorously defend the university where necessary and take ownership where appropriate. We look forward to a hearing with the infractions committee and the opportunity to make our case in person.”

Payment was made on November 2, 2015 with Smith committing ten days later. Gottfried was let go in February of 2017 and Smith was selected 9th overall in the 2017 NBA Draft.

Moving On

In short, this was needed. It’s been five years of questioning what should be done to “end” this mess. There was without a doubt, lingering concerns that pushed recruits away and additional hurdles this program needed to jump over. Keatts can now fully control the narrative of this team and program.

Gottfried won us games and made NCAAT runs, but the damage done only pushed State further away from lofty, historically-guided expectations.

Should have just made fake classes and got over it sooner.