Varez Ward At Center Of FBI Point Shaving Investigation

Varez Ward, Auburn’s suspended point guard, is at the center of point-shaving scandal that is under FBI investigation.

The Associated Press reports that the FBI investigation is centered around two games this season. Federal authorities believe that Ward may have been point shaving during Auburn’s loss to Alabama on Feb. 7 and Arkansas on Jan. 25.

The NCAA said in a statement:

“The NCAA takes any allegation of point shaving very seriously because sports wagering threatens two of our core principles — the well-being of student-athletes and the very integrity of intercollegiate sport. As allegations of point shaving, if proven, are also potential federal crimes, the NCAA will defer action until any process with the FBI has concluded.”

Auburn said in a statement:

“Auburn officials were made aware of a rumor regarding an allegation two weeks ago and immediately reported it to the FBI, the NCAA and the SEC. Because of the nature of the allegation, Auburn is not in a position to make any further comment on the situation.”

Ward was suspended, along with guard Chris Denson, before Auburn played Arkansas on February 25th. Denson was questioned and cleared of any involvement in the point shaving scandal. Denson returned to play the following game.

Ward didn’t play in the final three games of the season or the SEC tournament in New Orleans.

Auburn coach Tony Barbee said:

“Obviously our university released a statement which I totally support and stand behind, and obviously because of the nature of the allegations and the story, and because of the statement, I won’t be able to elaborate or answer any questions or make any further comment.”

Do you think Varez Ward is guilty of point shaving?