Daily Mississippian, March 29, 2003

Student questioned in point shaving scheme

By Joe Gonitch
Staff Writer

Campus authorities are investigating another alleged gambler in the Ole Miss basketball point-shaving scheme, sources have said.

Senior Matt Fortunato has allegedly been questioned by staff in the Dean of Students office with regard to his role in the scheme, which already involves two members of the Ole Miss men's basketball team.

Dean of Students Roger Mayfield and Assistant Dean of Students for Judicial Affairs Joyce Bright declined to comment on the issue. But a staff member in the department, who requested anonymity, said that Fortunato came to the office Monday, March 22 and left two hours later after meeting with Mayfield and several other personnel.

Guard Jason Tryburg and center Steve Hatley resigned from the Ole Miss basketball team March 18 after admitting they had shaved points in the Jan. 28 game against Mississippi State. They face charges of conspiracy to commit sports bribery and will be arraigned Wednesday. Ole Miss won the game, 81-68.

Neither Tryburg or Hatley could be reached for comment. Brain Gugliamo, who is serving as Tryburg's attorney, said his client was "cooperating to the fullest possible extent with authorities," but declined to answer specific questions about Fortunato.

Fortunato, who is known for hosting popular parties for events such as the Superbowl and the Kentucky Derby at his apartment along with roommate Danielle Radigan and graduate student Josh Boyd, didn't return phone calls for this story. Boyd and Radigan could not be reached for comment.