Big 12 Sues Texas Tech, Paxton Over Sorsby Dispute

Jonathan Rodriguez

Written by: Jonathan Rodriguez

Published: Tue Jun 16, 2026, 9:00 am ET

Read Time: 4 minutes

Big 12 Sues Texas Tech, Paxton Over Sorsby Dispute

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The Big 12 Conference has launched a legal battle against one of its own member schools. The conference recently filed a federal lawsuit against Texas Tech University, several university officials, and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton.

The dispute centers on quarterback Brendan Sorsby, whose eligibility became a major controversy after gambling violations surfaced during his time at Indiana. While a Texas court temporarily restored Sorsby's eligibility, the Big 12 argues that it still has the authority to enforce conference rules and discipline member institutions.

The case could have significant implications for college sports governance. It may also influence future disputes involving conference authority, athlete eligibility, and gambling-related violations.

The controversy arrives as interest in college football continues to grow among fans, bettors, and operators. Many US online sportsbooks regularly offer NCAAF odds and NCAAF picks throughout the season, making integrity concerns increasingly important for conferences and regulators.

Big 12 Defends Its Right to Enforce Conference Rules

The lawsuit stems from Sorsby's admission that he placed sports wagers while playing at Indiana. Reports indicate that he made dozens of bets totaling approximately $90,000. Some wagers reportedly involved Indiana athletic events.

As a result, the NCAA declared Sorsby permanently ineligible. However, a Lubbock County judge later granted a temporary injunction preventing the NCAA from enforcing the ruling against the quarterback.

That decision cleared the way for Sorsby to participate at Texas Tech under specific conditions, including a suspension.

The Big 12 argues that the court ruling does not eliminate the conference's independent authority. According to the lawsuit, member schools voluntarily agreed to conference bylaws designed to protect competitive integrity.

Conference officials claim Texas Tech and Paxton have attempted to interfere with those rights. The lawsuit seeks a declaration affirming the Big 12's ability to impose penalties if a member institution violates conference standards.

The conference also argues that allowing Sorsby to compete could damage public trust in college athletics. Officials contend that maintaining consistent enforcement is essential as sports betting expands across the United States.

AG Paxton and Texas Tech Push Back

Paxton strongly disagrees with the conference's position. Before the lawsuit was filed, he warned the Big 12 against sanctioning Texas Tech for complying with a court order.

The attorney general argued that conference penalties could violate state and federal law. He also suggested that such actions could expose the Big 12 and its members to potential antitrust claims.

Meanwhile, Texas Tech has continued to support Sorsby. University officials have emphasized his participation in treatment programs and his efforts to move forward from past mistakes.

The school maintains that the temporary injunction permits him to continue his college football career while legal challenges remain unresolved.

Why the Lawsuit Matters

The lawsuit is unusual because it places a major athletic conference in direct conflict with one of its member institutions.

The outcome could clarify how much authority conferences retain when state officials intervene on behalf of universities. It may also shape future disputes involving conference governance and athlete discipline.

Additionally, the case highlights the growing tension between conference regulations, NCAA enforcement, and state-level legal challenges.

Those issues have become increasingly important as college athletics generates more interest from fans, media companies, and betting operators. NCAAF remains one of the most popular betting markets, with sportsbooks posting extensive NCAAF odds and NCAAF picks each week.

Because of that visibility, conferences continue to place a strong emphasis on protecting competitive integrity.

Sorsby Plans NFL Supplemental Draft Move

However, the legal battle may soon lose much of its immediate significance.

Reports indicate that Sorsby intends to enter the NFL Supplemental Draft and withdraw his eligibility challenge. If he follows through, he would effectively end his pursuit of collegiate football participation in 2026.

His departure would remove the player at the center of the dispute. However, the broader legal questions would likely remain.

Even without Sorsby on the field, the lawsuit could establish important precedents regarding conference authority and disciplinary powers. Those issues may continue to influence college athletics long after this case concludes.

Jonathan Rodriguez
Jonathan Rodriguez

Jonathan is an avid basketball fan, and is often looking forward to the next upcoming NBA season when not checking players' stats during games. He also likes to keep his ears on the ground for the latest rumblings in the online casino industry.

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