Texas AG warns Big 12 could face legal action if league pursues actions over Sorsby

The Texas Attorney General's office has issued a forceful warning to the Big 12 Conference, threatening legal action on behalf of Texas Tech University if the league attempts to sanction the Red Raiders over quarterback Brendan Sorsby eligibility. This high-stakes maneuver follows a Texas state district judge's decision to restore Sorsby's playing status, sidestepping an NCAA gambling ban and igniting a fierce debate over athlete rights, institutional power, and the future of collegiate sports governance. Sorsby, who admitted to placing thousands of bets totaling over $90,000, including on his own team while at Indiana University, was initially declared permanently ineligible by the NCAA. However, a temporary injunction granted by a Lubbock judge on June 8, 2026, cited Sorsby's diagnosed gambling addiction and mandated a two-game suspension alongside continued treatment, effectively overriding the NCAA lifetime ban. This ruling has put the Big 12 in an untenable position: defy a state court order or face legal repercussions from the Texas AG, which warned of 'substantial liability' and 'antitrust violations' for any punitive action against Texas Tech. Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark has confirmed the conference is seeking legal counsel as some athletic directors from other schools have voiced outrage, with Georgia and Nebraska reportedly refusing to schedule Texas Tech in response. The NCAA is aggressively appealing the injunction to a higher Texas court, seeking an accelerated decision before the Red Raiders' season opener in September. Meanwhile, Sorsby's attorney, Jeffrey Kessler, has also sent a letter to the Big 12, reminding them of their obligation to honor the court's ruling and warning against any circumvention that could lead to further legal and financial liabilities, including 'tortious interference' with Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. This escalating legal battle not only imperils the Big 12's scheduling and competitive integrity but also intensifies calls for federal intervention and comprehensive legislation like the 'Protect College Sports Act' to stabilize a rapidly fragmenting college athletics landscape. The Big 12's full Board of Directors is set to meet next week, with all options reportedly on the table as they navigate this unprecedented challenge.