The University of Florida athletic department has completed an investigation into alleged gambling by Gators basketball player Nick Calathes and will not take action.

In a story first reported by Yahoo Sports, the 6-foot-6 sophomore guard from Casselberry and last year’s leading scorer, ran up about $600 in on-line poker debt.

There was no suggestion that Calathes or any other Florida player bet on sporting events, which would be an NCAA rules violation.

“We became aware of certain allegations over the weekend and immediately looked into it,’’ Florida athletic director Jeremy Foley said. “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.’’

Foley released his statement Friday night just prior to the Gators opening its 2008-09 season against Toledo.  By coincidence, the Toledo Rockets were involved in a point-shaving scandal in 2006.

According to the Yahoo story, some two weeks ago a team manager informed other members of the Gators’ staff of Calathes’ gambling debt. The athletic department questioned all current players and at least one former player, the Internet site’s sources.
Neither Calathes nor UF coach Billy Donovan had immediate comment.