Screenshots of alleged 2022 Venmo payments referencing “sports gambling” have put Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer under NCAA scrutiny. He denies the allegations. Get the full timeline, analysis of sources, NCAA context, and what may come next.
The Situation in Brief
- Allegations surface: Social media users shared screenshots from a Venmo account under the name “John-Mateer-5” with memos like “sports gambling (UCLA vs USC)” from 2022, when Mateer was at Washington State.
- Oklahoma is investigating: School officials are aware and plan to “exhaust every avenue” in reviewing the matter.
- Mateer denies involvement: He has “consistently denied” ever gambling, per ESPN’s Pete Thamel.
- Source authenticity questioned: Investigations reveal the origin of the screenshots stems from an anonymous social account that may be parody or fake, undermining credibility.
- NCAA implications: Betting on college sports is strictly prohibited and could threaten Mateer’s eligibility.
What We Know — Verified Reporting So Far
Social Media Sparks the Controversy
On Monday evening, a social media account surfaced screenshots of a Venmo user labeled “John-Mateer-5.” Two transactions were labeled “sports gambling (UCLA vs USC)” and “sports gambling,” dated November 2022 when Mateer was a freshman quarterback at Washington State. These screenshots quickly circulated among Sooners fans and college football circles.
Action Tip: Embed the initial SI or ESPN article for visual context.
Oklahoma’s Response
Sooner officials confirmed they are aware of the alleged Venmo activity and that they’ll proactively investigate. There’s no confirmation that NCAA is launching an inquiry yet, but school compliance staff are evaluating the school policy violations risk.
Mateer’s Denial
John Mateer outright denies any involvement in gambling. Several sources reported he told officials he had never participated in sports betting.
Source Reliability in Doubt
Investigations into the X account that originally posted the screenshots found inconsistencies: the user claimed to represent reputable media outlets but those claims were debunked. For example, the profile picture was of a former hockey player and the named journalist doesn’t appear to exist. (Stormin’ Norman)
Why This Matters — NCAA Rules & Player Integrity
- NCAA strict gambling rules: Student-athletes are banned from betting on any NCAA sports. Violations can lead to loss of eligibility (e.g., 50% of a season or more).
- Precedent exists: In 2023, Iowa State QB Hunter Dekkers was ruled permanently ineligible for similar violations.
- Reputation risk: Mateer is poised to be Oklahoma’s starting QB. This controversy could hamper his draft prospects, public image, and team stability if unresolved.
Timeline of the Story
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Aug 11, 2025 | Screenshots of questionable Venmo memos posted on social media. |
| Aug 12, 2025 | Oklahoma confirms awareness and investigation begins. Mateer denies involvement. |
| Same day | Outlets question the credibility of the original source, calling it possibly fraudulent. |
Next Steps & What to Monitor
- Official OU statement — expected in press conference or through compliance office.
- Verification of Venmo account — is it Mateer’s? Was it a joke or impersonation?
- NCAA involvement — will the national body open a case?
- Impact on season — Mateer is expected to start Week 1 vs Illinois State and then host Michigan Sept 6; eligibility news before kickoff would be consequential.