UMVA has learned that a dramatic turn of events has unfolded in the case of Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby, who can now rejoin his team after a court ruling.
A Lubbock County judge has temporarily blocked the NCAA from enforcing a ruling that declared Sorsby permanently ineligible due to gambling violations, clearing the way for him to practice, play, and take part in team activities during the 2026 season.
The injunction, issued by Judge Ken Curry, bars the NCAA from prohibiting Sorsby from participating on Texas Tech’s football team for the 2026 season, pending the outcome of his lawsuit against the NCAA.
According to information obtained by UMVA, the court determined that Sorsby had shown a probable right to the relief he seeks, and that the balance of equities is in his favor, given the hardship he would face if he couldn’t play.
The judge also found that urgent action was required to prevent irreparable injury to Sorsby, who faced a probable, imminent, and irreparable injury if he couldn’t participate, including the loss of a full season of competition and Division I coaching and development opportunities.
Sorsby, who previously acknowledged gambling violations, including bets on college football games, will sit out the first two games of the 2026 season and remain subject to treatment, monitoring, and compliance requirements.
In a statement, Sorsby expressed his gratitude for the support he has received and his commitment to personal growth and using his situation to help others.
Texas Tech athletic director Kirby Hocutt backed the ruling, saying the university believes Sorsby’s circumstances didn’t warrant permanent ineligibility and will continue to support him through clinical care and monitoring.
The NCAA, however, strongly disagrees with the court’s ruling, citing concerns about the damaging ramifications of this outcome, which they say undermines the integrity of sports.
For now, the NCAA can still appeal, but Sorsby remains eligible to return under the court’s conditions for the 2026 season, in a development that has significant implications for the world of college sports.
