By David Wharton

Los Angeles Times

The NCAA has issued a series of proposed reforms aimed at fixing the scandal-plagued sport of college basketball.

In a report published on Wednesday morning, officials proposed creating an independent enforcement unit and allowing college players to return to school if they are unchosen in the NBA draft.

“These changes will promote integrity in the game, strengthen accountability and prioritize the interests of student-athletes over every other factor,” the NCAA said in a statement.

The reforms were triggered by an ongoing federal investigation that has alleged widespread cheating, with coaches, agents and others funneling cash to players and recruits.

So far, 10 people have been charged in federal court, including former USC associate head coach Tony Bland and former assistants at Arizona, Auburn and Oklahoma State.

Wednesday’s report mentioned that the NBA might eventually allow high school players to enter the draft directly, thereby solving the NCAA’s “one-and-done” dilemma, but did not offer further comment.

Among the other changes proposed were: stronger penalties for major violations, allowing high school players to be represented by agents and a requirement that coaches disclose their personal contracts with shoe and apparel companies.

The NCAA said it would pursue more rigorous certification and accountability for elite camps and tournaments that shoe and apparel companies offer to high school prospects.