Six former players sanctioned in UK basketball betting and match-fixing cases

Six former players linked to the now-defunct Surrey Scorchers basketball club have been penalized following two separate investigations into match manipulation and betting violations, according to disciplinary actions announced by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) and the British Basketball Federation (BBF).

Five of the former players received sanctions for their involvement in match-fixing during the 2022–2023 British Basketball League (BBL) season.

These disciplinary actions followed a FIBA-led investigation conducted in coordination with the BBF, the Gambling Commission’s Sports Betting Intelligence Unit (SBIU), and the Great Britain betting industry. The inquiry identified at least six matches involving the Scorchers that were compromised through either direct manipulation or participation in plans to alter outcomes.

Two players, Quincy Taylor and Charleston Dobbs, were sanctioned by the BBF after a disciplinary panel reviewed evidence and gave both individuals the opportunity to respond. The panel imposed lifetime bans from all basketball activity in Great Britain and fines of £3,000 each. FIBA extended both bans to a global level. Neither player appealed the decision.

FIBA handled the disciplinary proceedings for three other former Scorchers players. Shakem Johnston and Padiet Wang received worldwide lifetime suspensions, with provisions allowing potential reduction. Joshua McFolley received a global suspension effective until September 2034. All three were afforded the right to appeal.

Separately, Dean Wanliss, also a former Surrey Scorchers player, was sanctioned for betting on basketball matches and competitions while registered as a player in both Spain and Great Britain between 2019 and 2021. The BBF, in collaboration with FIBA, the Spanish Basketball Federation (FEB), the SBIU, and the International Olympic Committee Monitoring Unit, led the investigation.

Wanliss received a £3,000 fine and a three-year suspension from all basketball activity in Great Britain. FIBA extended the suspension worldwide. He did not appeal.

The violations cited in both cases were found to be in breach of the FIBA Internal Regulations Code of Conduct and the BBF’s Anti-Corruption Policy. All disciplinary processes included opportunities for those involved to respond to the allegations.

FIBA, the BBF, Basketball England, Basketball Scotland, Basketball Wales, and the British National Championship Leagues have jointly reiterated their commitment to a zero-tolerance policy on betting and corruption in the sport.