Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has threatened legal action against the NCAA's Big 12 Conference following reports that the conference is considering sanctions against Texas Tech. The potential sanctions are related to the participation of quarterback Brendan Sorsby, who is playing under a court order.
In a letter to the Big 12, Paxton's office stated that punishing Texas Tech for complying with a judicial ruling would be unlawful and could expose the conference to legal liability. The letter emphasized that Texas Tech is confident the Big 12 will act within legal boundaries and respect the judicial process.
The attorney general's office indicated that the Big 12 may invoke a bylaw allowing member schools to impose sanctions with approval from a supermajority of uninvolved institutions. This could lead to Texas Tech forfeiting games in which Sorsby plays and potentially being barred from competing for a conference championship.
The dispute arises from a temporary injunction issued by a Texas state court that prevents the NCAA from enforcing a ban on Sorsby, allowing him to play for Texas Tech during the 2026 season while litigation is ongoing. The court ruled that Sorsby would suffer irreparable harm if he could not participate in the season, although he is prohibited from playing in the first two games.
Sorsby has admitted to placing over 9,000 wagers totaling at least $90,000 during his college career, including bets on Indiana football while he was part of the Hoosiers program. NCAA rules typically impose permanent ineligibility for players who wager on their own teams.
Paxton's office argues that any sanctions against Texas Tech would constitute an illegal agreement among competing schools to disadvantage the university, potentially violating federal and state antitrust laws. The letter claims that damages could exceed $200 million.
The ruling has raised concerns within the NCAA, with Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark expressing that the court's decision has created significant concern among member institutions. Utah athletic director Mark Harlan also voiced criticism of the ruling.
Additionally, Paxton's actions coincide with his Senate campaign against Democratic state Rep. James Talarico.