The NCAA has issued a permanent ban against former Abilene Christian University men's basketball player Airion Simmons for his alleged role in manipulating game outcomes for sports bettors.

Simmons, who played for the Wildcats, is accused of participating in a point-shaving scheme that involved deliberately influencing basketball games to benefit gamblers. The NCAA's enforcement action represents one of the most serious penalties available under college athletics rules.

The permanent ban means Simmons is prohibited from any involvement in NCAA athletics, including coaching, recruiting, or administrative roles at member institutions. Such sanctions are typically reserved for the most egregious violations of NCAA rules and amateur athletics principles.

Game-fixing schemes have become an increasing concern for college athletics as sports betting has expanded across the United States. The NCAA and law enforcement agencies have heightened surveillance and enforcement efforts to detect and prosecute such activities.

Abildene Christian University has not immediately responded to requests for comment regarding the matter. The investigation and subsequent ban highlight ongoing challenges facing college sports as they navigate the intersection of amateur athletics and legalized gambling markets.