Paxton, who is running for U.S. Senate against Democrat James Talarico, sent a letter to the Big 12 on Thursday that reportedly warned any action against Texas Tech could violate state and federal antitrust law and “would expose the Conference to substantial liability.”
“Should the Big 12 seek to sanction Texas Tech for acting consistent with the Order, Texas Tech will pursue all legal avenues to protect its interests,” the letter said.
In a statement, Yormak said “all options remain on the table” and the conference is “taking time with our legal counsel to understand the concerns of the state and will meet again with the full Board next week.”
The legal fight over Sorsby’s eligibility has plunged college sports into chaos this week.
On Monday, a Texas state district judge issued Sorsby an injunction against the NCAA that will allow him to play most of the upcoming season, despite an admission that he made at least $90,000 in sports bets while playing for Indiana University and Cincinnati.
Yormak said the ruling led to “great concern amongst our membership,” and set up the possibility of sanctions against Texas Tech, which is part of the conference.
At the center of the legal fight is Fort Worth oil billionaire Cody Campbell, who has spent millions of dollars recruiting athletes to Texas Tech and has defended Sorsby’s right to play.
Also supporting is Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows, one of the lawyers who represented the quarterback in his lawsuit against the NCAA.
“The judge’s decision includes consequences while allowing a young man to continue pursuing his education, his athletic career, and his future,” he wrote. “I wish Brendan continued success in his recovery and on the field.”