The Big 12 Conference held an Executive Board meeting Thursday to discuss potential sanctions against Texas Tech following a warning from the Texas Attorney General that legal action would follow any punitive measures against the school.
Sorsby eligibility dispute details
The conference's deliberations involve the eligibility of Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby, who recently received a temporary injunction from a Lubbock judge. While the NCAA declared Sorsby ineligible due to wagering on college athletics, the court order allows him to play this upcoming season.
Attorney General threatens legal action
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sent a formal letter to the Big 12 notifying the league that Texas Tech would pursue legal action if sanctions were levied against the university. In the letter, obtained by Yahoo's Ross Dellenger, Paxton stated that invoking Bylaw 3.6 to sanction the school for supporting Sorsby would be unlawful and expose the conference to substantial liability.
Commissioner meets with school presidents
Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark met Thursday with four school presidents from Kansas, Kansas State, Arizona, and BYU to discuss the case. Following the meeting, Yormark issued a statement noting that the conference received the Texas Attorney General's letter shortly before the session began.
League evaluates future course of action
Yormark said the league is working with legal counsel to understand the state's concerns and plans to meet with the full Board next Monday. He noted that all options remain on the table for the conference's course of action.
Details on Sorsby's suspension timeline
Under the current injunction, Sorsby is set to serve a two-game suspension during Texas Tech's nonconference games against Abilene Christian and Oregon State before being cleared to play.
