Three insiders from the world of college basketball recruiting have been convicted in a corruption case that prosecutors said exposed the sport's underbelly.
The case was related to the FBI's investigation and arrest of former Arizona Wildcats basketball assistant Book Richardson, who faces bribery charges.
A jury reached the verdict Wednesday in Manhattan federal court.
The government had accused a former Adidas executive, a business manager and the director of an amateur league in a scheme to funnel tens of thousands of dollars in secret payments to the families so the prospects would commit to Adidas-sponsored schools.
Prosecutors said the defendants committed fraud by concealing the payments that violated NCAA rules. Defense lawyers argued there was no evidence colleges suffered any harm.
The case also caused a scandal that forced the exit of legendary Louisville coach Rick Pitino last year.
