Who is Professor Thomas Whiting from Last Shot: A Final Four Mystery and what is their importance?

Stevie and Susan identify Professor Whiting as the man that was talking to Chip in the CBS area about throwing the game. Ironically, the professor teaches an ethics' class at MSU and was one of Chip's former professors. During their conversation Professor Whiting shows Chip his failing transcripts and tells him that if he doesn't throw the Monday night game against Duke, he will take the information to the NCAA and the press.