In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through college basketball, Indiana University (IU) head coach Darian DeVries is under intense scrutiny following allegations of NCAA violations related to the transfer of standout guard Lamar Wilkerson from Sam Houston State to IU. The controversy centers on potential tampering and improper inducements during Wilkerson’s recruitment process.
Wilkerson, a 6-foot-5 junior from Ashdown, Arkansas, averaged an impressive 20.5 points per game last season, shooting 47.7% from the field and 44.5% from beyond the arc. His decision to commit to Indiana over Kentucky was seen as a significant victory for DeVries, who is in the process of rebuilding the Hoosiers’ program.
However, reports have emerged suggesting that IU may have offered Wilkerson substantial Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) incentives that exceeded permissible limits, raising concerns about potential violations of NCAA regulations. Additionally, questions have been raised about the timing of DeVries’ recruitment efforts, with some alleging that contact with Wilkerson occurred before he officially entered the transfer portal, which would constitute tampering.
This situation is further complicated by the recent transfer of DeVries’ son, Tucker DeVries, who followed his father from West Virginia to Indiana. Tucker, a two-time Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year, entered the transfer portal with a “do not contact” tag, indicating a predetermined move to IU. Critics argue that this move, combined with the Wilkerson recruitment, suggests a pattern of questionable practices by DeVries.
The NCAA has reportedly initiated an investigation into these allegations, focusing on potential violations related to NIL inducements and tampering. If found guilty, IU could face sanctions, including scholarship reductions, postseason bans, and fines. DeVries, who has a history of success at Drake and West Virginia, now finds his reputation at risk as he navigates these serious accusations.
Indiana University has yet to release an official statement regarding the investigation. As the situation unfolds, the college basketball community watches closely, recognizing that the outcome could have significant implications for the future of IU’s program and the broader landscape of NCAA athletics.
