Definition: Runners -- sometimes called "street agents" -- work to befriend basketball players with pro potential, in the hopes of cashing in when those players reach the NBA.
Some runners work independently, while others may be formally or informally associated with major agencies.
Runners have been known to supply players -- or members of a players' family and/or entourage -- with cash or gifts, all of which is very strictly forbidden by NCAA regulations. Players caught accepting such gifts can be declared ineligible and their teams may be placed on probation, forced to forfeit games or return money received for post season appearances.
Notable players who landed in trouble due to association with runners include Marcus Camby of Massachusetts and Chris Webber of Michigan.
