New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin Feb. 15 announced a 10-year ban against a Wildwood games operator for using overinflated basketballs, along with a fine for other violations.

Platkin said an investigation by the Legalized Games of Chance Control Commission found that attractions being operated by Christine Strothers had several basketballs that were inflated more than the recommended pounds per square inch (PSI) of air — in some cases, by almost three times as much.

Think of it as the opposite of the “deflategate” controversy involving NFL quarterback Tom Brady several years back.

The action announced by Platkin includes a 10-year ban from holding Amusement Games Licenses as well as a $15,500 fine for failing to comply with the Amusement Games Licensing Law and regulations.

Strothers had received seven AGLs last spring to operate basketball and quarterback challenge games along the boardwalk in Wildwood and North Wildwood.

Commissioner investigators have made overinflated basketballs an area of focus, saying they unfairly affect a player’s chances of winning because they bounce erratically when they hit any part of the hoop. In 2021, the commissioner issued letters to basketball game operators letting them know that inspections were coming, and violations would be issued if the PSI was not right.

“Every person who plays an amusement game in the State of New Jersey deserves a fair shot at winning a prize,” said Platkin. “The Jersey Shore is one of the biggest draws in the state for families looking for fun and recreation and we are making sure those families are not being scammed out of their hard-earned money.”

In addition to the overinflated basketballs, investigators say Strothers violated prize display regulations by showing large stuffed animals that were not able to be won. In another violation, an investigator was not immediately given change for the quarterback challenge game.

The Commission visits every amusement game licensee at least once a year. Last year, investigators conducted 7,000 inspections that resulted in nearly $35,000 in penalties and violations.

“Investigators are always on the lookout to ensure a safe and fair experience for everyone who plays an amusement game on the boardwalk,” said Cari Fais, acting director of the Division of Consumer Affairs. “Amusement game operators who aren’t playing by the rules spoil the fun for everyone and they will be held accountable.”