An OU spokesperson said that no Ohio athletic personnel are involved in the recruiting scandal that rocked NCAA men’s basketball earlier this week.
Ohio signed an apparel contract last year with Adidas, who is at the center of the controversy.
“While the developments can certainly be defined as noteworthy,” Carly Leatherwood, senior director of communication services, said. “Ohio University does not have any specific comment at this time. It is important to note that this situation does not involve any OHIO student-athletes, coaches or administrators.”
According to an FBI investigation made public in New York on Tuesday, Adidas was funneling money to high school recruits in exchange for the athletes to play at Adidas-sponsored school.
The investigation didn’t name any universities or schools by name, but did name Jim Gatto, a senior Adidas executive.
“Today, we became aware that federal investigators arrested an Adidas employee,” Adidas said in statement Tuesday. “We are learning more about the situation. We’re unaware of any misconduct and will fully cooperate with authorities to understand more.”
Per the terms of their contract, Ohio is purchasing $200,000 worth of apparel from Adidas and will receive $600,000 this year from the season.
