Ex-Baylor Staffer Placed “Impermissible” Daily Fantasy Bets

A former Baylor University athletics staffer is facing serious consequences after discovering he placed thousands of bets over a six-year span. 

Some of the best involved Baylor games. 

Penalty for “Significant Conflict of Interest”

Sam Hancock, who once served as the school’s director of resource development, received a two-year show-cause penalty from the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), citing a “significant conflict of interest” tied to betting activity between July 2019 and September 2024.

According to the NCAA, Hancock placed approximately 2,950 bets totaling around $45,979 on three daily fantasy sports (DFS) platforms during that time, including 113 wagers on Baylor games. 

“Hancock and the enforcement staff agree that from July 2019 through September 2024, Hancock violated the principles of honesty and sportsmanship when he knowingly participated in sports betting activities,” the NCAA’s report said.

Hancock placed the bets despite having received the standard rules education from the University, and while knowing his conduct would be in violation of NCAA rules.

While the infractions didn’t rise to the level of a major violation, such as insider betting or tampering with game outcomes, the NCAA found the volume and nature of the bets troubling, especially since some involved Baylor athletes.

No DFS Names Revealed

The NCAA didn’t reveal which DFS platforms were used, nor did it go into detail about the specific bets Hancock made. 

However, the mention of bets involving athletes suggests player prop-style wagers, which are common on certain DFS sites. 

The issue is particularly sensitive in Texas, where sports betting legislation remains stalled. 

While DFS exists in a gray area legally, it’s still widely available, and many operators promote their presence in states like Texas and California.

Though the NCAA didn’t name specific companies, the largest DFS brands in the market do offer college-focused betting products, often including player stats and performance outcomes.

Two-Week Suspension and Gambling Counseling Time

As part of the show-cause order, Hancock is required to attend gambling counseling and pay his own way to the NCAA’s Regional Rules Seminars. 

Additionally, he must serve a two-week suspension from his current role and is prohibited from any interaction with college athletes or athletics staff during that period.

That condition is especially relevant now, as Hancock currently holds a leadership role in the Wichita State University athletics department. 

According to his LinkedIn profile, he has served as senior director of development and annual giving since November 2024.

Before that, he spent over five years at Baylor University as director of resource development, associate director of resource development, and assistant director of ticket sales and annual giving.

Other notable mentions include College Ambassador for the Dallas Mavericks for five months starting November 2017.Despite not breaching NCAA Level 1 rules, the sanctions reflect the growing concern around betting involvement by those inside college programs, even if done through DFS platforms.