Over 3100 Athletes From Michael Jordan’s Alma Mater UNC Were Once Involved in Almost 2 Decades of Fraud

Nithin Joseph | 03/06/2023
Over 3100 Athletes From Michael Jordan's Alma Mater UNC Were Once Involved in Almost 2 Decades of Fraud

In 2014, the University of North Carolina found itself in hot water. The alma mater of the great Michael Jordan was embroiled in close to two decades of academic fraud. With over 3100 athletes involved, it was a huge scandal that garnered worldwide attention. Especially given the host of legendary figures that came out of its program.

An independent investigation revealed the creation of “paper classes” with minimal requirements and nonexistent instruction. As reported by CNN, the fraud involved a systemic scheme where student-athletes were provided with fraudulent courses to maintain eligibility.

Michael Jordan’s Alma Mater UNC was once embroiled in a shocking case of academic fraud

The University of North Carolina is one of the most prestigious universities in the United States. Known for its stellar basketball program, the Tar Heels have had many greats pass through their ranks. From James Worthy, and Jerry Stackhouse to perhaps their most famous alumnus, Michael Jordan.

So, when it was reported in 2014 that the university was involved in fraud, many were shocked. According to reports over 3100 athletes were handed “paper classes.” A system that allowed eligible student-athletes to remain eligible with the help of artificially high grades and fake classes.

However, it doesn’t end there. If Kenneth Wainstein, the man who conducted an eight-month investigation is to be believed, then the academic fraud spanned a total of 18 years.

“These counselors saw the paper classes and the artificially high grades they yielded as key to helping some student-athletes remain eligible.”

The incident completely destroyed UNC’s reputation as a premier college. But, things didn’t end there. Given the magnitude of the incident, the NCAA got involved. But, their response left a lot to be desired.

NCAA refused to acknowledge obvious athletic element in UNC’s academic fraud case

The results surrounding the academic fraud case of UNC were pretty straightforward. It was a program that particularly looked to give their student-athletes an easy ride. Student-athletes who over the course of 18 years participated in several NCAA tournaments. However, the NCAA refused to acknowledge their role in the case.

The organization stated that they were not involved whatsoever and that the fraud was purely academic in nature. Despite the fact that it favored the student-athletes they were responsible for.

It’s been nine years since the incident and the NCAA has seen many changes in that time. As for the University of North Carolina, they went back to becoming an elite athletic program. From the looks of it, both the parties involved haven’t really felt the repercussions.

Post Edited By: Utathya Ghosh
Michael Jordan University of North Carolina

About the author

Nithin Joseph

Nithin is a content writer at The SportsRush. Like his favorite athlete Kobe Bryant, the company has helped Nithin elevate his writing skills to a whole new level, especially as an NBA content writer. With over 1500 articles to his name, Nithin's love for the sport knows no bounds. And, as he continues to watch the sport on a daily basis, he hopes his fascination with the NBA, especially the Miami Heat will inspire more and more readers to give the sport a chance. Perhaps, one day making basketball in India as big as it is in the United States.

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