Former College Basketball Coach Accused of Leading Double Life as Pimp

Authorities say Kevin Mays allegedly trafficked women across four states while working as an assistant coach.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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A former assistant basketball coach at Cal State Bakersfield, Kevin Mays, has been accused of leading a double life as a pimp, allegedly trafficking women across California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. The investigation began after the team's head coach received an anonymous tip alleging Mays' criminal activities. Police later conducted a sting operation and arrested Mays, who has now been charged with multiple felonies including pimping, firearms possession, and drug offenses.

Why it matters

This case highlights the troubling issue of sex trafficking, which can occur even among those in positions of trust and authority. It raises questions about oversight and accountability within college athletic programs, as well as the need for stronger measures to combat human trafficking networks that may operate across state lines.

The details

According to the report, the investigation into Mays began in August 2025 after the head basketball coach at Cal State Bakersfield received an anonymous email alleging that Mays had been trafficking a woman for months. The university then reported the tip to the police, who conducted a sting operation in September where they arrested Mays after he rented a hotel room for an alleged "date" with the victim. The victim referred to Mays as her "boyfriend" who "routinely" paid for her travel accommodations. Mays has now been charged with 11 felonies, including pimping, firearms possession, drug offenses, and child pornography charges.

  • The investigation into Mays began in August 2025 after the head basketball coach received an anonymous tip.
  • Police conducted a sting operation in September 2025 where they arrested Mays.
  • Mays' preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 13, 2026 after being delayed nearly five months.

The players

Kevin Mays

A former assistant basketball coach at Cal State Bakersfield who has been accused of leading a double life as a pimp, allegedly trafficking women across multiple states.

Rod Barnes

The head basketball coach at Cal State Bakersfield who received the anonymous tip about Mays' alleged criminal activities.

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What’s next

Mays' preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 13, 2026 after being delayed nearly five months, and he has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The takeaway

This case highlights the troubling issue of sex trafficking that can occur even among those in positions of trust and authority, and raises questions about oversight and accountability within college athletic programs when it comes to combating human trafficking networks.