Michael L. Buckner Law Firm Weekly NCAA Compliance and Enforcement Round-Up

This week the  Michael L. Buckner Law Firm continues its weekly summary of the biggest news stories in NCAA compliance and enforcement. Below are the top stories for this past week.

NCAA refutes Syracuse coach Jim Boeheim’s claim on school’s report

Takeaway:  While Syracuse men’s basketball coach Jim Boeheim stated possible violations of the school’s drug policy within the basketball program were reported five years ago, the NCAA has refuted this time frame stating the self-report was received on October 27, 2010.

NCAA expert: U-M football not likely facing major penalty over Twitter posts

Takeaway:  Michael L. Buckner of the Michael L. Buckner Law Firm told the Detroit Free Press the University of Michigan likely only committed a secondary NCAA violation regarding NCAA Bylaw 13.10.5. Buckner further explained, “with the proliferation of social media out there, it’s going to be incumbent on Michigan and these other schools to tell [student-athletes] that anything you say can be a violation.”

A Union Stands Up for Players

Takeaway: NY Times columnist Joe Nocera believes a union may be the answer for NCAA student-athletes. Additionally, two law school professors believe some student-athletes may be considered employees under the National Labor Relations Act’s legal standards.

Report: FBI looking at Auburn guard

Takeaway:  According to Yahoo! Sports, federal authorities are investigating suspended Auburn point guard Varez Ward for alleged point shaving involving at least two games this season. While the NCAA is “very concerned” by the allegations, they will defer action until the FBI has concluded their investigation.