August was apparently "Dump on Starnet" month. The Vancouver gaming software developer walked into the torrid month amid a controversy involving an ex-licensee. A few weeks later the company withstood a police raid that was part of an investigation into illegal gambling activity and pornography. And closing out the month, albeit a much less substantial blow to the company's image, were rumblings of NCAA disapproval of one of the company's celebrity sportsbooks.
The NCAA, well known for its rigid stance against all types of gambling, was less than thrilled to learn about ex-Michigan State (MSU) football star Bubba Smith's association with Internet gambling. In a story published by the Detroit News, NCAA Director of Agent and Gambling Activities Bill Saum warned Smith's alma mater that its players and coaches should be aware of Smith's business venture with Starnet.
Smith and Starnet partnered in March to create "Bubba's Casino & Sportsbook," one of several celebrity-themed online gambling sites offered by Starnet. Saum said it was "distressing" to learn that Smith was promoting online gambling.
The business venture could lead to the severing of relations between Smith and MSU. If it were to go that far, Saum said the decision would be in the hands of the institution, not the NCAA. He did, however, recommend that MSU examine the situation closely. "This kind of action by a former athlete… sends a poor message to our athletes, our boosters and to society."
Smith's agent, Mike Reynolds, said Smith would be hurt if he were barred from associating with MSU, and pointed out that there shouldn't be a problem because the website doesn't use any NCAA proprietary rights or logos.
MSU compliance officer John Hard said it would be "premature to make any comment" before more information is gathered. "Clearly it's something we want to review," he said.