NBA stars arrested in mafia poker and insider betting scandal
NBA figures including Chauncey Billups and Terry Rozier arrested in mafia poker and insider betting fraud cases.
The FBI has indicted more than 30 people in a widespread national gambling investigation with ties to the NBA.The NBA has placed Billups and Rozier on immediate leave and is cooperating with federal authorities.
The FBI has indictments for more than 30 people related to their alleged role in a sweeping national gambling situation involving the NBA.
Hall of Fame player Chauncey Billups, currently the coach of the Portland Trail Blazers, is the most prominent name mentioned.
During a Thursday, Oct. 23 news conference, FBI director Kash Patel said that current Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier and ex-NBA player Damon Jones, along with Billups, were arrested.
Although the NBA is included in the investigation of the scandal, Billups was charged for his part in an illegal poker scam with ties to organized crime.
Rozier is accused of intentionally adjusting his play as an active participant in an NBA game with the goal of helping illegal betting.
A former 11-year NBA player, Jones’ charges include his part in disclosing privileged injury information about current Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James in order to provide an advantage in the illegal sports betting realm.
James is not under investigation.
The Phoenix Suns, Western Conference rivals of the Trail Blazers and Lakers, were busy with preparations for their Friday, Oct. 24, game in Los Angeles against the Clippers.
“Obviously saw it, aware,” Suns coach Jordan Ott told reporters at media availability when asked if he had any comment. “Not at this point, I have no comment on that. We were stuck in the film room watching film, handling our practice and our game this weekend.”
The NBA issued a statement following the FBI news conference.
“We are in the process of reviewing the federal indictments announced today,” the statement read. “Terry Rozier and Chauncey Billups are being placed on immediate leave from their teams, and we will continue to cooperate with the relevant authorities.
“We take these allegations with the utmost seriousness, and the integrity of our game remains our top priority.”
The Trail Blazers canceled a scheduled media availability, and have named assistant Tiago Splitter interim head coach.
“We are aware of the allegations involving head coach Chauncey Billups, and the Trail Blazers are fully cooperating with the investigation,” the Trail Blazers said in a statement.