A former DraftKings sportsbook trader, Samuel Silverman, has been arrested and charged with two felony counts in connection with an alleged college basketball betting scheme. The charges, filed May 5 and obtained by ESPN, include committing a fraudulent act in a gaming establishment and conspiracy to cheat at a gambling game.
Investigators allege that Silverman conspired with Mykell Robinson, a former Fresno State basketball player, who is accused of intentionally underperforming during the Bulldogs' Jan. 7, 2025, game against Colorado State. Silverman's purported role involved facilitating prop bets on Robinson and directing funds related to the scheme.
According to investigators, the operation also involved Steven Vasquez, another former Fresno State teammate, and Matthew Martin, a former DraftKings sports trader. Suspicious betting activity involving multiple parlays placed on the underperformance of Robinson's player props, totaling $2,200 in payouts at +625 odds, reportedly raised red flags at BetMGM before the game.
These wagers, allegedly placed by Martin, resulted in nearly $16,000 in profits. Martin is accused of cashing out the winnings and funneling the money to Silverman, who then allegedly distributed it among the involved parties. Robinson finished the Jan. 7 game with three points, two rebounds, no assists, and zero three-pointers in 21 minutes, as Fresno State lost to Colorado State 91-64.
Evidence cited by authorities includes text messages from Robinson to Vasquez indicating he would only play the first half and that his production would be low. Investigators concluded that a "clear conspiracy" existed to manipulate player props for financial gain.
DraftKings confirmed that neither Silverman nor Martin held positions that allowed them to set college basketball betting lines during their tenure. A DraftKings spokesperson stated that the alleged activity did not occur on their platform, and the individuals involved are no longer employed by the company. The company condemned the alleged conduct and affirmed its commitment to the integrity of sports betting. An internal review found no evidence of improper use of company information or impact on customers.
The NCAA previously ruled Robinson and Vasquez permanently ineligible in September for violating sports wagering rules related to the alleged scheme. The investigation by Nevada regulators is reportedly ongoing, with potential for further charges against other individuals.
Silverman has pleaded not guilty through his attorney. Martin has not been criminally charged, and the investigation continues.