Brendan Sorsby’s lawyer issues warning to Big 12
Jeffrey Kessler, has sent a letter to the Big 12 explaining the conference’s obligation.
Olivia Bennett 
The legal battle surrounding Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby has intensified, with his attorney taking direct aim at the Big 12. Jeffrey Kessler, acting as legal counsel for Sorsby, has officially sent a letter to the conference, issuing a firm reminder that the league is obligated to respect and honor the recent court ruling.
Holding the Line
In the correspondence, Kessler clarified the nature of Sorsby's legal challenge. According to reporting from Front Office Sports, Kessler emphasized that Sorsby filed claims regarding breach of contract, declaratory judgment, and breach of fiduciary duty due to the NCAA's failure to adhere to its own established bylaws and reinstatement protocols. Kessler noted that a judge from Tarrant County reviewed the evidence and determined Sorsby demonstrated a probable right to relief, stressing that the quarterback is not challenging the legitimacy of the NCAA’s broader gambling regulations.
Pressure from the Lone Star State
The situation escalated further on Thursday when the Texas attorney general’s office cautioned the Big 12 regarding potential legal fallout. This follows a Monday decision by a Texas district court that issued a temporary injunction, effectively blocking the NCAA from enforcing a permanent ban against Sorsby. The ruling has created significant friction, as the Big 12 now navigates how to proceed following the court-ordered restoration of Sorsby's eligibility.
Context of the Dispute
Sorsby’s eligibility became a flashpoint after the transfer quarterback admitted to past gambling activity, which included at least 40 wagers placed on his own team during his freshman year at Indiana. Texas Tech has maintained that Sorsby has successfully completed a month-long inpatient treatment program and remains under active monitoring and support.
The Texas AG's office directed its warning to Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark and Kansas Chancellor Douglas Girod, who serves as the chairman of the Big 12 board of directors. The communication highlights concerns regarding a specific conference bylaw that could allow for sanctions against a school if they are deemed to have acted in a manner materially adverse to the conference's interests.
205focus.com notes that The Associated Press contributed to this report.
