Endicott-Based Basketball Recruiting Firm Sued By State

The state attorney general has accused a Broome County basketball recruiting business of misleading high school and post-graduate players.

Attorney General Barbara Underwood says a lawsuit has been filed against AAUConnect.com, which maintains offices in Endicott. The operation also does business as "New York International Academy."

According to a news release, business principals Chris Bevin and Hazel Ward allegedly misrepresented their program and services. Bevin and Ward could not be reached Tuesday to respond to the action announced by the attorney general.

The AAUConnect website indicates the operation is based at 23 Jackson Avenue, which is the former Henry B. Endicott school building.

The lawsuit claims athletes were housed in a "run-down, filthy building" far from practice facilities. There also were said to be used syringes scattered on the ground outside the building.

Athletes who had been promised time in college-quality facilities allegedly had to practice in community and church gyms.

The company also is accused of not providing the academic services which participants had expected.

The attorney general is seeking restitution for consumers and civil penalties.

Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com

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