First basketball recruiting scandal trial begins

 

NEW YORK — A jury is being chosen at a New York trial that’s drawing attention to what some call the sleazy side of college basketball recruiting.

Jury selection started on Monday at the trial of an aspiring sports agent, an Amateur Athletic Union coach and an Adidas executive.

All have pleaded not guilty. Their lawyers say the charges are a stretch.

U.S. District Judge Lewis A. Kaplan has told a group of 50 prospective jurors that opening statements are likely to begin Tuesday.

Other defendants face separate trials, including former assistant coaches from Arizona, Auburn, the University of Southern California and Oklahoma State.

The corruption scandal already has brought down a coaching legend, Rick Pitino of Louisville. It also embarrassed sportswear giant Adidas and showed how high school players were pawns for profiteers violating NCAA regulations.