Harvard Hoops: Inadvertent NCAA violation

Harvard basketball acknowledged an inadvertent 2007 violation of NCAA recruiting policies.

The Ivy League has announced that Harvard will self-impose recruiting limits for the 2010-11 academic year after acknowledging an inadvertent "secondary" violation of the NCAA's policies of recruitment of prospective athletes.  Three years ago, assistant basketball coach Kenny Blakeney allegedly provided improper assistance to the Crimson coaching staff by observing two players who later came to Harvard and made the varsity; at the time, Blakeney had not been officially hired by Harvard. In 2008, the New York Times first reported these activities; however, a subsequent extensive review by the Ivy League cleared Harvard of any improper actions involving recruitment (see Harvard Magazine's reporting from the time here).

Head basketball coach Tommy Amaker issued the following statement: "These events occurred three years ago, and I'm pleased to bring this two-year review to a conclusion.  This extensive and comprehensive inquiry  yielded one minor and unintentional secondary.  We're excited about the  future, growth and development of our basketball program at this tremendous institution."

 

 

You might also like

After a historic 2025-26 season, athletes eye NCAA championships.

Despite personnel losses, Crimson captain Xaviah Bascon is upbeat about the 2026 season.

Rassey returns to Cambridge from Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Most popular

Harvard Weathers a Year of Turmoil

The federal government has launched unprecedented actions against the University. Here’s a guide.

Lafayette’s Unexpected Gift to George Washington: Pheasants

The two birds will be on display at Harvard this summer.

Radcliffe Medalist Gloria Steinem speaks on gender, violence, social justice

Accepting the Radcliffe Medal, the activist and writer spoke about gender, violence, and social justice—with a dose of humor. [video/audio]

Explore More From Current Issue

Smiling woman stands beside a large skull in a display cabinet.

From competing in youth gymnastics to studying tetrapods, the Harvard curator has always chased her curiosity.

Colorful cartoon animals, including dogs, cows, rabbits, and a fence, on a pink background.

Inseparable cows, big dogs fostering a tiny kitten, and a show beagle’s second act

A woman with curly blonde hair sits casually against a stone wall, wearing a black top and jeans.

Chloe Chapin trains her Broadway costume designer’s eye on the history of men’s fashion.