Oklahoma QB blames suspicious Venmo payment on ‘internal joke’

Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer Suspicious payments in Venmo accounts allegedly related to sports gambling attempt to explain suspicious payments.

“The allegations that I have participated in sports gambling are wrong,” Mateer, 21, posted By x Tuesday, August 12. “My previous Venmo descriptions didn’t accurately portray the deal, but were in jokes between me and my friends. I never bet on sports.”

Screenshots began circulating on social media on Monday, August 11, allegedly showing payments for Mateer’s personal Venmo account, which was tagged as “sports gambling” in November 2022. Both transactions are allegedly made to the Venmo account Richard RoatenHe was considered a teammate of Martel, who was in Washington State at the time.

A payment from peers to Roaten allegedly mentioned a specific game between USC and UCLA, two schools that were then meeting companions with the former Pac-12 at Washington State University.

Mateer transferred to the University of Oklahoma in December, becoming the No. 1 overall player in the ESPN transfer portal rankings.

“I understand the seriousness of the matter, but recognize that, from the context, these Venmo descriptions suggest other situations,” Mateer continued. “I can assure NCAA teammates, coaches and officials that I’m not engaged in any sports gambling.”

College athletes are not allowed to bet on any NCAA sports. Athletes found to be gambling may face loss of qualification.

according to ESPN.

ESPN’s Pete Thamel Report The university plans to “digate all paths” in its investigation into the matter.

Mateer “strongly denies” gambling charges, Oklahoma City News 9 Sports Director Toby Rowland.

Oklahoma’s Sooners ranked 18th in the Associated Press pre-season poll released Monday.

Oklahoma opened at home against Illinois on August 30, before hosting the University of Michigan on September 6.

During the SEC media era last month, Mateer explained why he wanted to make a good impression on his teammates right away.

“I want to make sure I’m not too arrogant, too confident,” Mateer told the SEC Network. “I don’t want to say too much. I want to build relationships, but I don’t want to be like, ‘Oh, I’m this guy.’ I hope my work shows that I can be a leader.”