Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC
The Firm
201-896-4100 info@sh-law.comFirm Insights
Will D.J. Fluker, Luther Davis Controversy Have Wider Implications for Sports Agent Laws in Certain States?
Author: Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC
Date: September 18, 2013
Key Contacts
Back
In the aftermath of an exclusive Yahoo! Sports report, which implicates five Southeastern Conference football stars in NCAA rule violations, the details of the case may have a broader impact on sports agent laws.
The Yahoo investigation suggests that five players violated NCAA rules by receiving extra benefits prior to completing their collegiate careers. These players accused of receiving the illegal benefits are Alabama offensive tackle D.J. Fluker, Tennessee quarterback Tyler Bray, Tennessee defensive end Maurice Couch, Mississippi State defensive tackle Fletcher Cox and Mississippi State receiver Chad Bumphis. According to information retrieved by texts and emails, former Alabama football player Luther Davis is accused of providing these benefits to the players as a middleman for sports agents. The report was able to authenticate Western Union fund transfers, banking statements, flight receipts, and other financial materials.
In certain states the transactions may carry wide implications on state sports agents laws. For instance, the Yahoo report confirmed multiple transactions that connect Alabama football player D.J. Fluker to Davis, agents, and financial advisers. If these transactions are verified, all of the aforementioned parties are guilty of the Alabama’s sports agent laws, which require that all agents be licensed by the Alabama Athlete Agents Commission.
Those who operate in an unlicensed capacity are committing a Class C felony, which is punishable by one to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $5,000, All Alabama notes. In addition, initiating contact with a college athlete without being registered is a class A misdemeanor, meaning the perpetrators may face up to one year in prison and a fine up to $2,000.
In addition to the legal complications the report – if verified – could cause in Alabama, it could also raise additional problems for Tennessee and Mississippi State, which are on probation until the summer of 2015 for previous rules violations relating to their respective football programs.
- Industries: Entertainment & Media
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Related Posts
See all
SECURE 2.0 RMD Planning Strategies
How the Updated Law Shapes Retirement and Estate Planning The SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022 materially reshapes the required minimum distribution (RMD) landscape, extending tax deferral opportunities while accelerating distribution requirements for many beneficiaries. For high-net-worth individuals and families, these changes are not merely technical. They require a reassessment of retirement income strategies, beneficiary planning, […]
Author: Marc J. Comer
Buying Commercial Property in New Jersey: Legal Guide for Small Businesses
Small businesses considering buying commercial property in New Jersey must evaluate a range of legal, financial, and operational factors. While ownership can offer long-term value and control, it also introduces significant risks if not properly structured. This guide outlines key considerations to help New Jersey business owners make informed decisions, minimize legal exposure, and successfully […]
Author: Robert L. Baker, Jr.
The SEC’s Latest Guidance on Applying Federal Securities Laws to Tokenized Securities
On January 28, 2026, staff of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s Divisions of Corporation Finance, Investment Management, and Trading and Markets issued a joint statement clarifying how existing federal securities laws apply to tokenized securities. The SEC’s “Statement on Tokenized Securities” does not establish new law, but it does provide greater clarity on the […]
Author: Dan Brecher
Common Legal Mistakes NYC and New Jersey Business Owners Make
Operating a business in the New Jersey and New York City metropolitan region offers incredible opportunities, but it also requires navigating a dense and highly regulated legal environment. From entity formation to regulatory compliance, seemingly minor legal oversights can expose business owners to significant risk. In our work with businesses throughout the region, our attorneys […]
Author: Dan Brecher
What Founders Can Learn From Start-up Suits
High-profile founder litigation is more than just a media spectacle. For startup founders, these cases underscore the legal and structural risks that can arise when rapid growth outpaces formal oversight. While launching a new company can be both an exciting and deeply rewarding endeavor, founders must be mindful that it also comes with significant risks. […]
Author: Dan Brecher
Corporate Governance Reviews: A Practical Guide for New Jersey Companies
Every New Jersey company should periodically evaluate its governance framework. Strong corporate governance protects directors and officers, builds investor confidence, reduces litigation exposure, and positions a company for sustainable growth. The first quarter of the year is a great time to evaluate your corporate governance practices and perform any routine maintenance needed to keep that […]
Author: Ken Hollenbeck
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Sign up to get the latest from our attorneys!
Explore What Matters Most to You.
Consider subscribing to our Firm Insights mailing list by clicking the button below so you can keep up to date with the firm`s latest articles covering various legal topics.
Stay informed and inspired with the latest updates, insights, and events from Scarinci Hollenbeck. Our resource library provides valuable content across a range of categories to keep you connected and ahead of the curve.