Source: Florida guard Calathes ran up poker debt

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) -Florida guard Nick Calathes ran up about $600 in debt playing poker online but did not bet on sporting events, which would have violated NCAA rules, according to a person close to the program.

The person, speaking on condition of anonymity because of student confidentiality concerns, said the athletic department questioned Calathes and other Florida basketball players but found no evidence of wrongdoing.

"We became aware of certain allegations over the weekend and immediately looked into it," athletic director Jeremy Foley said in a statement. "We reviewed everything very thoroughly and are satisfied with our results. We have no eligibility issues and are very comfortable that this issue is resolved based on our review."

Neither Florida coach Billy Donovan nor Calathes was available for comment Friday. Calathes was expected to be in the starting lineup in Florida's season opener Friday night against Toledo.

According to NCAA rules, student-athletes can't knowingly give information to individuals involved in organized gambling activities, solicit or accept any bets or participate in any gambling activity that involves intercollegiate athletics.

Calathes averaged 15.3 points and 6.1 assists last season and was named the Southeastern Conference's co-freshman of the year.

Former Florida guard Teddy Dupay was kicked off the team in September 2001 following a six-month gambling investigation by law enforcement. Dupay acknowledged he violated NCAA rules by betting on sporting events.