11/21/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/21/2024 17:05
Dear students, colleagues and alumni,
I have been made aware of media reports about a former Temple basketball student-athlete, detailing a federal investigation into sports wagering activities. While it is disappointing to see Temple mentioned in this context, we know that it is not representative of our athletics program.
Intercollegiate athletics is an important component of the Temple experience. It unites our community and is a source of deep pride for our students, alumni, faculty and staff. We take seriously the integrity of collegiate athletics as well as the education and well-being of our student-athletes. Coaches, student-athletes and staff members receive mandatory training on NCAA rules and regulations, including prohibitions on involvement in sports wagering. The key messages are reinforced throughout the year with regular text and email reminders.
The university has been aware of these allegations since they were first reported in the media in March 2024. We have been fully responsive and cooperative with the NCAA since the moment we learned of the investigation. While the university has not received any requests for information from state or federal law enforcement agencies regarding these allegations, we will cooperate fully should we be contacted.
Temple Athletics and our student-athletes consistently display a high level of commitment, sportsmanship and academic achievement. Just yesterday, it was announced that Temple's Department of Intercollegiate Athletics registered a 93% graduation success rate. It was the sixth consecutive year it has compiled a graduation success rate of 90% or above. Temple is one of only 18 Football Bowl Subdivision schools with a graduation success rate of 93% or above and a federal graduation rate of 77% or higher.
I will keep you updated on this matter as future developments occur.
Sincerely,
John Fry
President