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Federal authorities on Thursday unveiled a sweeping criminal case linking NBA figures and organized crime to a years-long illegal gambling and fraud operation. FBI Director Kash Patel described the scheme as “mind-boggling,” involving tens of millions of dollars and implicating four of the five major Mafia families.

The NBA said in a statement that it took the allegations "with the utmost seriousness and the integrity of our game remains our top priority." It added it was in the process of reviewing the federal indictments but had placed Chauncey Billups and Terry Rozier on immediate leave.

However, Seth J. Zuckerman, celebrity criminal defense attorney and founder of Zuckerman Legal Group, told Newsweek that the NBA's many commercial partnerships with sportsbooks will "complicate" its response to alleged gambling ring. "On the one hand, they can say they take these allegations seriously; meanwhile, during all these games, there are ads across the screen promoting gambling," he said. "Obviously, the NBA does not support fixing games or bets, as alleged in the indictment, but they are hypocritical to think this would not happen."

What to Know:

• FBI Director Kash Patel said the case targets “a wide sweeping criminal enterprise” involving the NBA and La Cosa Nostra.
• More than 30 individuals have been arrested across 11 states.
• Charges include wire fraud, money laundering, extortion, robbery, and illegal gambling.
• The Bonanno, Gambino, Genovese, and Lucchese crime families are named in the investigation.
• Patel said the fraud spanned years and included crypto-related schemes.
• The case is being prosecuted by the Eastern District of New York.
• NBA players and coaches, including Chauncey Billups and Terry Rozier, are among those arrested.

Newsweek's live blog is closed.

Oct 23, 2025 at 07:52 PM EDT

Rich targets referred to as ‘fish’ lured in by prospect of playing with NBA stars

The Mafia-run poker cheating ring used a combination of celebrity "face cards" and elite, luxury Manhattan locations to lure in rich targets known as "fish" to the games, the indictment, obtained by Newsweek, read.

The wealthy marks were attracted to the games by the prospect of playing with pro athletes and coaches, including Portland Trail Blazers coach and Hall-of-Fame NBA player Chauncey Billups, at locations with names like "The Lexington Avenue Game,” the indictment said.

Once lured in, the wealthy clients often lost tens of thousands, or sometimes hundreds of thousands of dollars, playing poker against cheaters who were in on the scam, at games which features high-tech cheating methods, the DOJ said. The alleged victims have not been identified.

Billups is charged with participating in a conspiracy to fix high-stakes card games tied to La Cosa Nostra organized crime families. Those games are alleged to have swindled poker players out of at least $7 million.

Former NBA assistant coach and player Damon Jones has also been charged in connection with the scheme.

Oct 23, 2025 at 07:41 PM EDT

The NBA games allegedly impacted by the gambling scheme: January 26, 2024 and March 20, 2024 – Toronto Raptors games

Jontay Porter, then an NBA player with the Toronto Raptors, is accused of telling alleged co-conspirator Long Phi Pham and others that he would prematurely leave Raptors games scheduled for January 26, 2024 and March 20, 2024, due to purported injuries.

"Porter agreed to exit the games early so that Pham and others could place bets on this non-public information," the DOJ said in a statement.

Pham allegedly informed his co-conspirators who placed significant wager on Porter's under performance - bets that then paid off when Porter left the games early.

Oct 23, 2025 at 07:32 PM EDT

The NBA games allegedly impacted by the gambling scheme: February 9, 2023 and January 15, 2024 – LA Lakers games

The Department of Justice said that former NBA star and coach Damon Jones, also known as “D Jones,” had "shared and sold insider information on numerous occasions."

That insider information included lineup decisions and medical information, which had not yet been made public, about players ahead of Lakers games on February 9, 2023 and January 15, 2024, prosecutors said.

Jones allegedly passed that information onto co-conspirators who then placed "significant wagers based on the tips."

Oct 23, 2025 at 07:15 PM EDT

The NBA games allegedly impacted by the gambling scheme: April 6, 2023 – Orlando Magic game

Marves Fairley, also known as “Vez," allegedly received a tip from an unnamed co-conspirator with a relationship with an Orlando Magic player, that several of the team's stars would be sitting out the April 6, 2023, game against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Prosecutors say that Fairley had then placed a $11,000 bet that the Cavaliers would outperform the point spread, before the new lineup information was made public.

When the Cavaliers went onto trounce Magic by 24 points, allowing Fairley and his co-conspirator to take home the winnings, the DOJ said in a statement.

Oct 23, 2025 at 07:05 PM EDT

The NBA games allegedly impacted by the gambling scheme: March 24, 2023 – Portland Trail Blazers Game

Eric Earnest, also known as “Spook,” allegedly received information from a longtime friend and NBA coach, that several of Portland Trail Blazers' best players would be sitting out the March 24, 2023, game against the Chicago Bulls, prosecutors said on Thursday.

Alleged co-conspirator Marves Fairley, also known as “Vez," and his associates had then wagered more than $100,000 against the Blazers.

After the lineup change became public, the betting odds dropped significantly, meaning that Fairley and his associates' bets yielded much higher winnings.

Oct 23, 2025 at 06:51 PM EDT

The NBA games allegedly impacted by the gambling scheme: March 23, 2023 – Charlotte Hornets Game

Prosecutors say that Terry Rozier, then a player for the Hornets, had tipped off his friend “Dee Jones,” Deniro Laster, that he was planning to leave the March 23, 2023, game early due to a purported injury.

"Rozier provided this information to Laster for the purpose of enabling Laster to place wagers based on this information," the DOJ said in a statement.

The DOJ says that Laster, “Spook,” Marves Fairley, and Shane Hennen, had then used that inside information to place bets of more than $200,000, predicting Rozier would underperform. When Rozier exited the game after nine minutes, many of the bets paid off, "generating tens of thousands of dollars in profits."

"Laster collected the cash and drove through the night to Rozier’s house, where together they counted the profits together," the statement read.

Oct 23, 2025 at 06:32 PM EDT

NYPD commissioner says rigging games ‘as immoral as it is illegal’

NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch condemned the alleged NBA gambling ring on Thursday, which she called "an offense to every player and fan."

“Rigging a professional basketball game for personal profit is as immoral as it is illegal,” she said in a statement.

“This investigation exposed a gambling ring built around the NBA, where players and associates allegedly used inside information and even faked injuries to fraudulently manipulate bets on games. The fact that some players altered their performance or took themselves out of games to ensure these bets paid out is an offense to every player and fan."

Tisch also praised her NYPD detective who worked with the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office on the investigation.

Oct 23, 2025 at 05:56 PM EDT

Terry Rozier spotted leaving Florida court after arrest

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Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier has been seen leaving a Florida court after his arrest for his alleged involvement in the NBA gambling scandal.

Rozier, 31, who was wearing shorts and a sweatshirt, was seen leaving the court in Orlando via the back entrance on Thursday.

Heat guard Terry Rozier was seen exiting via the back entrance following his arraignment in Orlando on Thursday.

Oct 23, 2025 at 05:47 PM EDT

NBA likely to ‘come down harshly’ on all those involved with gambling ring to avoid ‘broader sports integrity probe’: Lawyer

Seth J. Zuckerman, celebrity criminal defense attorney and founder of Zuckerman Legal Group, told Newsweek that the NBA is likely to deal harsh punishments to anyone proven to be involved with the alleged Mafia-run gambling scheme, " to avoid a broader sports integrity probe."

Zuckerman said that he and other legal experts would be watching closely to see what evidence that government has, which will indicate "the strength of the allegations."

"It is possible someone involved may be willing to implicate others, which would possibly expand the scope," he added. "I presume the NBA will come down harshly on those involved in order to avoid a broader sports integrity probe because they may not like what they find."

Oct 23, 2025 at 05:22 PM EDT

NBA’s partnerships with sportsbooks ‘complicates’ its response to gambling scandal, says celebrity defense lawyer

Seth J. Zuckerman, celebrity criminal defense attorney and founder of Zuckerman Legal Group, told Newsweek that the NBA's many commercial partnerships with sportsbooks will "complicate" its response to alleged gambling ring.

Federal authorities on Thursday unveiled a sweeping criminal case linking NBA figures and organized crime to a years-long illegal gambling and fraud operation. FBI Director Kash Patel described the scheme as “mind-boggling,” involving tens of millions of dollars and implicating four of the five major Mafia families.

Zuckerman said that while the NBA does not support any illegal gambling or game fixing, its sponsorships and support for game betting made them "hypocritical" if they didn't believe that such a scheme could happen.

"The NBA’s partnerships complicate its response," the former New York prosecutor told us. "On the one hand, they can say they take these allegations seriously; meanwhile, during all these games, there are ads across the screen promoting gambling. Obviously, the NBA does not support fixing games or bets, as alleged in the indictment, but they are hypocritical to think this would not happen."

Oct 23, 2025 at 05:03 PM EDT

Famous basketball stars were used as ‘face cards’ to attract wealthy people to rigged Mafia-run poker games: Indictment

Famous basketball stars, such as Chauncey Billups and Damon Jones, were used by the Mafia as "face cards" to attract wealthy people to play in their rigged poker games, according to the DOJ indictment.

These "face cards" added credibility to the games, while in exchange, they would receive a portion of the profits.

The indictment, obtained by the New York Times, stated that the machines used to shuffle the cards at the poker games had advanced tech inside them that could read each card in the deck and predict which player had the winning hand. That information was relayed back to someone at the table, who could communicate through the other cheating players via secret signals.

Other rigged games included poker chip trays with hidden cameras, and cards with secret markings that were only viewable with specially designed contact lenses or sunglasses.

If a player failed to repay their gambling debts, the Mafia would use extortion and threats to ensure they paid, the DOJ said.

Oct 23, 2025 at 04:42 PM EDT

Who is Chauncey Billups?

Chauncey Billups, known throughout the basketball world as “Mr. Big Shot,” is a former NBA star and the current head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers.

Born on September 25, 1976, in Denver, Colorado, Billups, his basketball career began as a standout college guard at the University of Colorado, before being selected third overall by the Boston Celtics in the 1997 NBA Draft. He bounced between several teams — Boston, Toronto, Denver, and Minnesota — before finally finding a home with the Detroit Pistons. It was in Detroit where his career flourished. As the Pistons’ floor general, Billups became the steady hand of one of the most balanced and unselfish teams in modern NBA history. His leadership culminated in the 2004 NBA championship, where Detroit stunned the star-studded Los Angeles Lakers. Billups’ performance earned him the Finals MVP award and cemented his reputation as one of the league’s premier point guards.

Over a 17-year playing career, Billups earned five All-Star selections and was named to both All-NBA and All-Defensive teams.

Following his retirement in 2014, Billups transitioned to broadcasting and front-office roles, serving as an analyst for ESPN and an executive with the Los Angeles Clippers. In 2021, he returned to the sidelines as head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers.

Oct 23, 2025 at 04:18 PM EDT

Court documents detail insider betting scheme involving former Lakers coach

Federal court filings reveal a sophisticated betting scheme in which defendants allegedly sold confidential NBA player information to manipulate wagers. Central to the case is Damon Jones, who served as an unofficial assistant coach for the Los Angeles Lakers during the 2022–2023 season and reportedly had access to non-public medical data.

According to prosecutors, Jones alerted a co-conspirator ahead of a February 2023 game that a key Lakers player would sit out due to injury. “Get a big bet on Milwaukee tonight before the information is out!” Jones allegedly texted. The Lakers lost that game, aligning with the insider prediction.

However, the scheme didn’t always succeed. In January 2024, Jones and an associate allegedly sold injury information for $2,500 to a sports bettor, who then placed a $100,000 wager against the Lakers. The player performed as usual, and the Lakers won. The bettor reportedly demanded a refund, which Jones and his associate refused.

Oct 23, 2025 at 04:05 PM EDT

Trail Blazers place Chauncey Billups on leave amid arrest, Tiago Splitter named interim coach

The Portland Trail Blazers announced Thursday that head coach Chauncey Billups has been placed on immediate leave following his arrest earlier in the day. Assistant coach Tiago Splitter will assume interim head coaching duties.

The Blazers said in a statement, “We are aware of the allegations involving head coach Chauncey Billups, and the Trail Blazers are fully cooperating with the investigation. Billups has been placed on immediate leave, and Tiago Splitter will assume head coaching duties in the interim. Any further questions should be directed to the NBA."

Billups, who has led the Blazers since 2021, is among several NBA figures recently implicated in a widening federal probe.

Oct 23, 2025 at 03:51 PM EDT

Rozier flagged by NBA watchdog in 2023, no action taken

Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier was first flagged for potential gambling irregularities in 2023, according to U.S. Integrity, a firm contracted by the NBA to monitor suspicious betting activity. The company reportedly detected unusual patterns tied to wagers involving Rozier’s performance.

Following the alert, the NBA launched an internal investigation but ultimately found no conclusive evidence of misconduct. As a result, Rozier was not disciplined at the time.

Oct 23, 2025 at 03:38 PM EDT

BetOnline responds to NBA betting scandal: ‘Small limits, strong safeguards’

In an exclusive email interview with Newsweek, Dave Mason, Brand Manager at BetOnline.ag, addressed the recent federal indictments alleging insider betting involving NBA players and coaches. Mason called the revelations “very disappointing,” noting that such scandals reinforce negative perceptions of the sports betting industry.

BetOnline, which has operated for 25 years, says it has long prioritized integrity by capping prop bet limits between $100 and $500. “The best way to offset these temptations is to implement standard, small limits for prop betting,” Mason said, adding that the company will continue to offer player and team props with proactive safeguards.

While Mason declined to comment on specific customer data, he stated that BetOnline has not observed irregular activity tied to the games or individuals named in the indictment. He also confirmed that the company has had no contact with federal or league investigators regarding betting data.

Asked whether current regulations are sufficient to prevent fraud, Mason offered no comment.

Oct 23, 2025 at 03:22 PM EDT

NBA gambling case reveals elaborate fraud tactics

Federal prosecutors have unveiled a sweeping fraud case involving tens of millions of dollars, implicating NBA players, former athletes, and organized crime figures in a years-long scheme that blended insider betting, rigged games, and high-tech cheating tools.

Among the most striking allegations:

• Fake Injuries: Seven NBA games between February 2023 and March 2024 are under scrutiny. Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier and former player Damon Jones are accused of manipulating game time to influence betting outcomes. In one March 2023 game, Rozier exited after just nine minutes—far below his average—allegedly tipping off insiders in advance.
• Rigged Poker Games: In a related case, 31 defendants are accused of orchestrating poker games stacked with insiders, including former pro athletes, to defraud unsuspecting players.
• High-Tech Cheating Devices: Prosecutors say the group used altered contact lenses, special glasses, and even an X-ray table to read marked cards. The Mafia allegedly became involved at this stage, taking a share of the profits.
• Money Laundering: The scheme funneled illegal gambling profits through shell companies and cryptocurrency, leading to charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering.
• Violence and Intimidation: Authorities say the group also used force, including a gunpoint robbery to steal a rigged card-shuffling machine, and acts of extortion against victims.

Oct 23, 2025 at 03:08 PM EDT

Jontay Porter was threatened into participating in NBA gambling scheme over his gambling debts, says US attorney

Former Toronto Raptors player Jontay Porter was threatened into participating in the alleged NBA gambling scheme, which has been tied to the Mafia, because of his pre-existing gambling debts, U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella said.

Porter, who was previously banned from the NBA in 2024 and is awaiting sentencing for his role in a gambling scheme involving player prop bets.

He told the court that he had manipulated his performance to rig two games during the 2023-24 season for betting.

Oct 23, 2025 at 02:53 PM EDT

NBA betting scandal adds to long history of sports gambling violations

The latest federal indictments involving NBA insiders mark a troubling continuation of illegal betting cases across professional sports. U.S. officials say the arrests are linked to the ongoing investigation into former Toronto Raptors player Jontay Porter, who pleaded guilty in July 2024 to conspiracy to commit wire fraud after allegedly manipulating his performance to benefit gamblers. Porter, banned for life by the NBA, is scheduled to be sentenced in December.

Though not charged in the new indictment, Porter is listed among “relevant individuals,” underscoring his role in a broader probe into betting-related misconduct.

The NBA case joins a growing list of scandals in major leagues:

• NFL: Josh Shaw was suspended in 2019 for betting on games involving his own team. Though reinstated in 2021, his professional career did not resume.
• MLB: Ippei Mizuhara, interpreter for Shohei Ohtani, received nearly five years in prison for stealing millions from the player to cover gambling debts.
• MLB History: Pete Rose, one of baseball’s most iconic figures, was banned for life in 1989 after betting on games while managing the Cincinnati Reds.

Oct 23, 2025 at 02:42 PM EDT

White House reacts to alleged NBA gambling ring

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt was asked on Thursday about the FBI investigation into an alleged NBA gambling ring, which has been linked to the Mafia.

Leavitt did not address the question about what President Donald Trump thought about the investigation, and its multiple arrests including players and a coach.

But she did answer whether Trump liked to gamble himself.

"I don't think he does," she said, adding that she had never seen him gambling personally.

"I don't think he's a big gambler but you can ask him yourself," she added, to the reporter, during the White House press confernece.

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Oct 23, 2025 at 02:40 PM EDT

FanDuel responds to NBA betting scandal: ‘Deeply disturbing’

FanDuel, the nation’s largest sports betting platform, issued a strong statement following federal indictments alleging insider betting schemes involving NBA players and coaches. A company spokesman called the revelations “deeply disturbing,” citing concerns for fans, athletes, and the integrity of professional sports.

The company emphasized its use of advanced monitoring systems to detect irregular betting patterns and report them to both leagues and law enforcement. “We are unwavering in our commitment to rooting out abuses by those who seek to undermine fair competition and the games we love,” the spokesman said.

Oct 23, 2025 at 02:27 PM EDT

DOJ alleges NBA insiders profited from game-fixing scheme

The U.S. Justice Department has unveiled a detailed indictment alleging that several NBA players and coaches exploited confidential game information to facilitate profitable betting schemes. Among those named is Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier, accused of tipping off a friend about his early exit from a March 2023 game, which allegedly led to tens of thousands in gambling profits.

The DOJ outlined multiple incidents involving insider knowledge of player injuries and lineup changes:

• March 23, 2023: Rozier allegedly informed Deniro Laster of his plan to leave the Hornets-Pelicans game early.
• March 24, 2023: Eric Earnest is accused of passing along information from a coach about key Trail Blazers players sitting out.
• April 6, 2023: A co-conspirator allegedly obtained lineup details from a Magic player ahead of their game against the Cavaliers.
• February 9, 2023 & January 15, 2024: Former player Damon Jones allegedly sold insider data, including medical updates, before games involving the Lakers.
• January 26 & March 20, 2024: Jontay Porter is accused of signaling planned early exits from Raptors games due to purported injuries.

Oct 23, 2025 at 02:13 PM EDT

NBA faces credibility test amid betting scandal, says crisis expert

As the NBA grapples with fallout from a high-profile gambling indictment, a leading crisis communications expert warns the league’s credibility is on the line. Christopher Morse, professor of Communication at Bryant University, says the NBA’s deep ties to sports betting platforms complicate its ability to respond convincingly.

“You can’t promote betting and prop bets across broadcasts and advertising, then act surprised when scandals emerge,” Morse said. He argues that the league’s financial entanglements with sportsbooks raise public skepticism about its willingness to fully address misconduct.

Morse suggests the NBA may struggle to prove it’s serious about reform while continuing to profit from gambling partnerships. “The question becomes whether they’ll take real action—or just go through the motions to protect their revenue streams,” he said.

The league’s next steps, Morse notes, will be closely watched not just by fans, but by sponsors and regulators assessing its commitment to integrity.

Oct 23, 2025 at 02:02 PM EDT

What are the famous New York Mafia families?

New York has long been the epicenter of La Cosa Nostra activity in the United States, home to the so-called “Five Families.”

These are the Bonanno, Colombo, Gambino, Genovese and Lucchese families.

Each family traditionally controlled specific areas and industries, ranging from labor unions to gambling operations.

For decades, the families cooperated through a governing body known as the Commission, which settled disputes and coordinated criminal ventures across territories. Though weakened by arrests and informants, the Five Families remain symbolic of the Mafia’s enduring influence on American organized crime.

Oct 23, 2025 at 01:51 PM EDT

What does La Cosa Nostra mean?

In Italian, “La Cosa Nostra” translates to “our thing.” The phrase reflects the Mafia’s code of secrecy and loyalty among members — a way of distinguishing insiders from outsiders. The name reportedly emerged in the United States in the mid-20th century as members sought to describe their criminal organization without explicitly naming it. Within the culture of the Mafia, the phrase underscores allegiance to the family above all else, emphasizing silence (omertà), obedience and shared control over illicit ventures.

Oct 23, 2025 at 01:51 PM EDT

What is La Cosa Nostra, and how is it tied to NBA gambling probe?

La Cosa Nostra, commonly known as the Mafia, is a long-running organized crime network that originated in Sicily and took root in major U.S. cities. The group, structured around “families,” has been tied to racketeering, extortion, drug trafficking and illegal gambling for decades, according to the FBI.

Authorities say the Mafia’s deep ties to illegal gambling have resurfaced in connection with a sweeping federal investigation involving NBA figures. More than 30 people — including Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier — have been charged in two overlapping cases involving sports betting and rigged poker games allegedly backed by La Cosa Nostra families.

Prosecutors say Rozier participated in an insider sports-betting ring that used private NBA information to profit from wagers, while Billups is accused in a separate scheme to manipulate underground poker games. U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella Jr. called the cases “among the most brazen sports corruption schemes since the legalization of online sports betting.”

Officials say the Mafia’s role in financing and protecting illegal gambling operations underscores its continued influence in modern sports-related corruption, revealing how organized crime’s traditional enterprises are adapting to the digital era of betting.

Oct 23, 2025 at 01:29 PM EDT

NBA gambling indictment marks historic legal crossroads, says former federal prosecutor

A sweeping indictment involving organized crime, NBA personnel, and high-tech gambling manipulation marks an unprecedented legal moment, according to Mitchell Epner of Kudman Trachten Aloe Posner LLP. The former federal prosecutor and veteran litigator says the case is the first of its kind to fuse rigged card games, professional sports figures, and digital tools into a single criminal conspiracy.

“If prosecutors can prove that current or former NBA players and coaches knowingly participated,” Epner told Newsweek, “they face prison terms likely measured in years, possibly decades.” While the legal system presumes innocence until proven guilty, the NBA has the latitude to suspend individuals based solely on the indictment—a move Epner believes has already occurred.

The investigation, led by the Organized Crime Strike Force, was complicated by the use of shell companies and cryptocurrency transfers. NYPD Commissioner Tisch noted that thousands of hours were spent unraveling the financial web, underscoring the challenge of tracing illicit proceeds in the digital age.

To secure convictions under racketeering statutes, prosecutors must demonstrate a conspiracy: an agreement to commit specific crimes, knowing participation by the defendant, and at least one overt act to advance the scheme. RICO charges add further complexity, requiring proof of intent to engage in a defined set of criminal activities.

Sentencing outcomes could be severe. Epner explains that federal guidelines weigh both the financial magnitude of white-collar offenses and the degree of violence in crimes like extortion or armed robbery. When both are present, the guidelines combine them into a single, often lengthy sentence.

The NBA’s commercial ties to sportsbooks may also draw scrutiny. Epner notes that major leagues once shunned all gambling associations—highlighting how Mickey Mantle and Willie Mays were banned from MLB for working at legal casinos. The NBA’s embrace of platforms like FanDuel and BetMGM, once controversial, could now raise questions about institutional oversight and vulnerability to manipulation.

Oct 23, 2025 at 01:16 PM EDT

FBI uncovers dual schemes involving rigged poker and NBA insider betting: Schemes explained

Federal investigators say two major criminal operations are at the heart of an ongoing probe into illegal gambling and sports rigging involving current and former NBA figures and members of New York’s organized crime families.

According to U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella Jr., 31 defendants are accused of running a nationwide scheme to rig underground poker games using advanced cheating technology. Devices included custom shuffling machines that could read card order, barcoded decks, and hidden cameras embedded in tables and fixtures. The games were allegedly backed by the Bonanno, Gambino, and Genovese crime families, with NBA figures—such as Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups—used to lend legitimacy to the setup.

The second scheme involved illegal betting on NBA games using insider information. Prosecutors say defendants exploited non-public details about player injuries, absences, and game-time decisions to place high-value prop bets at sportsbooks and casinos. In one case, a current player was allegedly coerced into sharing information due to outstanding gambling debts.

The investigation continues to unfold, with federal authorities describing the case as one of the most sophisticated sports betting conspiracies in recent memory.

Oct 23, 2025 at 01:04 PM EDT

Tiago Splitter to temporarily replace Chauncey Billups as Trail Blazers coach: Report

Portland Trail Blazers assistant coach Tiago Splitter will take over as head coach in the interim as the NBA places Chauncey Billups on leave over his arrest in connection to an alleged Mafia sports gambling ring, sources told ESPN.

Fellow Portland assistant coach Nate Bjorkgren had also been considered but it was decided he would remain in his current role.

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Oct 23, 2025 at 01:02 PM EDT

Jeffries says NBA betting case ‘shocks the conscience’ of fans

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries called the federal indictment involving NBA figures and illegal gambling “a stunning development” during an interview Thursday on CNN’s The Situation Room.

Jeffries, who represents New York and is a longtime Knicks fan, said the case should deeply concern basketball fans. “The indictment seems very wide-ranging,” he noted, while emphasizing that all defendants are entitled to the presumption of innocence.

Oct 23, 2025 at 12:59 PM EDT

Former NBA player Damon Jones alleged to have traded information about LeBron missing game due to injury for money

The FBI has confirmed the arrest of former NBA player Damon Jones in Las Vegas as part of an ongoing investigation.

According to the indictment, obtained by the New York Times, Jones, who was a friend of LeBron James, sold or tried to profit off non-public information so others could bet on it. Cited in the FBI investigation into the gambling ring, was a February 9, 2023 Lakers-Bucks game that LeBron missed after being ruled out due to ankle soreness.

Before the February 9, 2023 Lakers game, Jones allegedly texted an unnamed co-conspirator that a player would miss the game, and they should bet on the Bucks instead. That player had not been listed on the injury report yet. LeBron would miss the next two Lakers games before returning for the team’s final game before the All-Star break.

Jones, who played for the Cleveland Cavaliers and multiple other teams during his professional career, is among several individuals reportedly detained in connection with a federal probe into illegal sports betting.

Oct 23, 2025 at 12:51 PM EDT

Tonko calls NBA betting scandal a warning sign for industry reform

Representative Paul Tonko, Democrat of New York, said Thursday that the alleged NBA gambling schemes are “an inevitable consequence of the unchecked explosion of the sports betting industry.”

Tonko, a co-sponsor of federal legislation to regulate sports betting nationwide, is pushing for standards that include advertising limits and affordability checks.

“The constant, unfettered access to sports gambling destroys public trust in the game,” Tonko said, “while having dire consequences for countless across our nation struggling with problem gambling.”

The proposed legislation seeks to address growing concerns as legal sports betting expands nationwide.

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Oct 23, 2025 at 12:38 PM EDT

Feds say poker scheme involved violence, money laundering

U.S. Attorney Joe Nocella said Thursday that the rigged poker game operation at the center of a federal indictment extended beyond gambling fraud and included acts of violence and financial crimes.

According to Nocella, defendants laundered proceeds through cash exchanges, shell companies, and cryptocurrency transfers. He also alleged that some participants committed violent acts, including a gunpoint robbery to obtain a rigged shuffling machine and extortion to enforce gambling debt repayment.

Oct 23, 2025 at 12:30 PM EDT

Billups and Rozier placed on immediate leave by the NBA

The NBA confirmed on Thursday that Terry Rozier and Chauncey Billups were being placed "on immediate leave from their teams" after news of their arrest in connection with the FBI investigation into a Mafia gambling ring.

"We take these allegations with the utmost seriousness and the integrity of our game remains our top priority," the organization said in a statement, released Thursday. "We are in the process of reviewing the federal indictments announced today."

Oct 23, 2025 at 12:29 PM EDT

NBA reacts to arrests of player, coach in connection with Mafia gambling ring

The NBA has released a statement in reaction to the arrest of a player and coach as part of the FBI investigation into a Mafia gambling ring.

"We take these allegations with the utmost seriousness and the integrity of our game remains our top priority," the organization said in a statement, released Thursday. "We are in the process of reviewing the federal indictments announced today."

The NBA said it will continue to cooperate with the relevant authorities while the two NBA members who had been arrested, have been placed on leave.

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Oct 23, 2025 at 12:25 PM EDT

Expert: NBA betting scandal unlikely to shake public trust in sports markets

Richard Sheehan, professor emeritus of finance at the University of Notre Dame and author of Keeping Score: The Economics of Big-Time Sports, says the recent NBA betting scandal may not significantly damage public trust in regulated sports markets.

Sheehan argues that while leagues have long histories of cracking down on misconduct—citing Pete Rose as a prime example—sportsbooks are newer and less visible, making reputational recovery more complex. Still, he believes the impact will be limited, noting that betting platforms have a vested interest in maintaining fairness and often report suspicious activity themselves.

On safeguards, Sheehan says leagues and sportsbooks already rely heavily on data analysis and anomaly detection, with AI poised to enhance oversight. “Monitoring for anomalies is the key,” he said, adding that players who attempt manipulation are “really just being stupid.”

Comparing the case to past scandals, Sheehan places it between a 5 and 7 on a scale of severity, with Pete Rose at 10 and college point-shaving cases at 3. He notes that college basketball has avoided major performance scandals for decades, thanks in part to NCAA and FBI vigilance.

As for the NBA’s partnerships with sportsbooks, Sheehan sees them as a potential asset, not a liability. “If anything, those partnerships likely make it easier for sportsbooks to convey their concerns about anomalies to leagues,” he said.

The consequences for those involved could be severe. “Any athlete or coach that goes down that route will have a future income in sports equal to mine,” Sheehan quipped. “And at my age, that’s absolute zero.”

Oct 23, 2025 at 12:24 PM EDT

FBI director says agency will ‘take heat’ for gambling ring bust

FBI Director Kash Patel admitted on Thursday that his agency will "take heat for this case" after he announced more than 30 arrests, including NBA players and coaches such as Chauncey Billups and Terry Rozier, as part of the gambling ring bust.

"It's not popular to go after some of the defendants that we went after today, but justice is served blindly," he said Thursday.

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Oct 23, 2025 at 12:12 PM EDT

What is La Cosa Nostra?

La Cosa Nostra—Italian for “Our Thing”—is a term used to describe a powerful criminal organization rooted in the Sicilian Mafia. While it originated in Sicily in the mid-19th century, the name also refers to the Italian-American Mafia, which took shape through immigration in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

The American La Cosa Nostra (LCN) is structured around organized crime “families,” with the Five Families of New York historically holding the most influence. These groups have been linked to illegal gambling, drug trafficking, loan sharking, and extortion.

Though federal law enforcement has significantly weakened LCN’s national power, the organization remains a focus of ongoing investigations. The U.S. government continues to use the term La Cosa Nostra in official references to Italian-American organized crime.

Oct 23, 2025 at 12:03 PM EDT

See the indictment that names 31 in high-tech poker fraud scheme

The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York has released a sweeping indictment charging 31 defendants in a nationwide underground poker scheme.

According to law enforcement, the operation involved members of four American crime families who used cheating technology—including rigged shuffling machines and hidden cameras—to defraud victims out of millions.

The full scope of the alleged conspiracy is detailed in the newly unsealed 22-page indictment shared by CNN.

Read it here:

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Oct 23, 2025 at 11:59 AM EDT

FBI: Gambling scheme funded organized crime in New York

Thirteen members and associates of the Bonanno, Gambino, and Genovese crime families are among the defendants charged in two federal cases tied to illegal gambling, according to FBI Assistant Director Christopher Raia.

Raia said the operation defrauded victims out of tens of millions of dollars and served as a financial engine for La Cosa Nostra’s broader criminal activity.

“The FBI has not, and will never, take their eye off the ball when it comes to Italian-organized crime in this city,” Raia said, vowing continued pressure on New York’s five Mafia families.

Oct 23, 2025 at 11:46 AM EDT

FBI official sparks confusion as he mentions Toronto sports team that doesn’t exist in gambling ring press conference

An FBI official sparked confusion during Thursday's press conference as he mentioned a Toronto sports team being caught up in the alleged NBA gambling ring.

"The indictment details specific examples where the defendants profited from illegal gambling and illegal betting on various NBA games about the performance of players on, among other things, the Charlotte Hornets, Portland Trailblazers, the Los Angeles Rangers and the Toronto Rangers," he told reporters.

The only issue, is that there is no sports team named the Toronto Rangers.

It is likely he is referring to NBA team the Toronto Raptors.

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Oct 23, 2025 at 11:46 AM EDT

High-tech poker scam used NBA figures to lure victims, officials say

New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said Thursday that defendants in the federal gambling case used advanced technology to rig poker games, including custom shuffling machines, barcoded decks, and hidden cameras embedded in tables and light fixtures.

Tisch said organizers recruited “well-known public figures, former and current NBA players and coaches,” including Chauncey Billups, to make the games appear legitimate. Victims believed they were playing fairly, unaware of the setup.

Losses from the scheme have surpassed $7 million, with one individual reportedly losing $1.8 million alone.

Oct 23, 2025 at 11:35 AM EDT

Kash Patel says more than 30 arrests have been made across 11 states in ‘nationwide takedown’

FBI Director Kash Patel warned Thursday that "cheating, corruption, and laundering have consequences" as he celebrated what he described as a gambling case "nationwide takedown."

"Today the FBI dismantled a multi-million dollar gambling ring tied to La Cosa Nostra, including current & former NBA players and coaches — as well as an inside scheme to rig sports betting outcomes for profit. Cheating, corruption, and laundering have consequences. We followed the money, and the law caught up," he wrote on X.

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Oct 23, 2025 at 11:32 AM EDT

Portland Trail Blazer coach Cauncey Billups is in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame

Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups was officially enshrined in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame on Sunday in Springfield, Massachusetts, capping a 17-year playing career marked by perseverance and championship success.

During his induction speech, Billups reflected on his journey from a high school standout in Denver to an NBA Finals MVP and a five-time All-Star. He credited his grandmother’s early encouragement as the inspiration behind his drive to elevate the family name through basketball.

Billups was presented by former Pistons teammate Ben Wallace and WNBA legend Tina Thompson, now a scout for the Blazers. Former Detroit coach Larry Brown was scheduled to appear but did not attend.

Drafted third overall in 1997, Billups faced early setbacks with multiple teams before finding stability in Minnesota under coach Flip Saunders. He later led the Detroit Pistons to a title in 2004 and earned the nickname “Mr. Big Shot” for his clutch performances.

Oct 23, 2025 at 11:19 AM EDT

Chauncey Billups’ coaching career faces scrutiny after arrest

Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups was arrested Thursday morning, just hours after leading his team in their season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The arrest comes amid a federal investigation into illegal gambling activity involving NBA personnel.

Billups, 49, transitioned to coaching following a celebrated 17-year playing career that included five All-Star selections and a championship run with the Detroit Pistons in 2004, where he earned NBA Finals MVP honors. His clutch performances earned him the nickname “Mr. Big Shot.”

A Colorado native and former third overall draft pick in 1997, Billups retired in 2014 and briefly worked as an ESPN analyst before joining the Los Angeles Clippers as an assistant coach. He was named head coach of the Trail Blazers in 2021 and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2024.

Oct 23, 2025 at 11:06 AM EDT

What is Portland Trail Blazer coach Chauncey Billups salary and career earnings?

Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups signed a multi-year contract extension in April, the team announced at the time ahead of its regular-season finale against the Los Angeles Lakers. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Billups, in his fourth season with Portland, led the team to a 35-46 record and a late-season surge, including a 22-18 stretch over the final 40 games. Despite missing the playoffs for a fourth straight year, the Blazers showed defensive improvement and promise with a young core led by Scott Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe.

General manager Joe Cronin, who also signed an extension this week, praised the team’s defensive growth and identity under Billups. Team chair Jody Allen cited Billups’ leadership and developmental focus as key reasons for the renewal.

Billups is a former NBA champion and Finals MVP with Detroit and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2024.

Oct 23, 2025 at 10:47 AM EDT

NYPD Commissioner: Joint indictment ‘extraordinarily rare’

New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed Thursday that four of the five major New York Mafia families are named in a sweeping federal indictment tied to rigged poker games and illegal gambling.

“Investigators uncovered a long-running scheme in which members and associates of several well-known organized crime families rigged high-stakes poker games across the country,” Tisch said.

The indictment includes operatives from the Bonanno, Gambino, Lucchese, and Genovese families. Tisch called the joint indictment “extraordinarily rare,” highlighting the depth and sophistication of the alleged operation.

Oct 23, 2025 at 10:44 AM EDT

Federal probe sparks concerns over sports betting’s rapid growth

The federal investigation into alleged NBA game rigging and illegal gambling is sending tremors through the professional sports world, which has increasingly embraced legalized betting as a revenue stream.

Thursday’s arrests and indictments highlight the risks tied to the industry’s expansion, echoing past warnings from former U.S. Senator and New York Knicks star Bill Bradley. A key architect of the 1992 law that once banned sports betting, Bradley cautioned in 2024, “I just don’t think it will be controlled… I think there will be a scandal.”

Oct 23, 2025 at 10:41 AM EDT

What to know about the FBI’s coast-to-coast arrests in NBA gambling investigation

Rick Patel, special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New York, described Thursday’s arrests as the result of a years-long, multi-agency effort targeting a sprawling criminal enterprise.

“In the early hours of today across nine states, coast to coast, dozens of defendants were arrested and will face the consequences of their alleged crimes,” Patel said. “This was their wake-up call.”

The operation, dubbed Operation Royal Flush, involved HSI, the FBI, the NYPD, and the New York Waterfront Commission. Patel said the case includes alleged ties to three La Cosa Nostra crime families, a Hall of Fame NBA coach, and former players.

“This wasn’t luck, and this wasn’t theatrics,” Patel added. “This was an evidence-driven, relentless and unified effort.”

Oct 23, 2025 at 10:39 AM EDT

Rigged poker games in Manhattan tied to organized crime, feds say

Federal prosecutors say one of the indictments in the sweeping gambling investigation accuses several defendants of running rigged poker games at locations on Lexington Avenue and Washington Place in Manhattan.

According to the indictment, the games operated “on record” with the approval of members and associates of La Cosa Nostra. Organized crime figures allegedly provided protection, enforced debt collection, and received a share of the illegal proceeds in exchange for their support.

Oct 23, 2025 at 10:37 AM EDT

NBA games targeted in federal gambling scheme, prosecutors say

U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella Jr. said Thursday that the indictment outlines “specific examples where the defendants profited from illegal gambling and illegal betting on various NBA games.”

The scheme allegedly centered on player performance from teams including the Charlotte Hornets, Portland Trail Blazers, Los Angeles Lakers, and Toronto’s NBA franchise—referred to by Nocella as the “Toronto Rangers,” likely meaning the Raptors.

Oct 23, 2025 at 10:34 AM EDT

Prosecutors detail fraudulent betting network in NBA case

U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella Jr. said that the sports betting scheme at the center of the federal investigation involved hundreds of thousands of dollars in fraudulent wagers.

According to Nocella, the operation relied on a network of proxies—also known as straw bettors—who placed bets using insider information. Most of those bets were successful, he said, underscoring the scale and precision of the alleged conspiracy.

The scheme is part of a broader case linking NBA figures and organized crime to illegal gambling and financial fraud.

Oct 23, 2025 at 10:31 AM EDT

Feds say rigged poker games used athletes to lure victims

Federal prosecutors say a years-long illegal gambling scheme began in 2019, using wireless cheating technology to rig high-stakes poker games in cities including the Hamptons, Las Vegas, Miami, and Manhattan.

According to Nocella, victims—referred to as “fish”—were enticed to join games featuring former professional athletes, dubbed “face cards,” including Chauncey Billups and Damon Jones.

Unbeknownst to the victims, per officials, the dealers and other players were allegedly part of the scam, working together to manipulate outcomes and defraud participants.

Oct 23, 2025 at 10:28 AM EDT

Two criminal schemes unveiled in NBA gambling investigation

Federal prosecutors have charged dozens of individuals in two separate but related criminal schemes—one involving insider sports betting, the other a nationwide poker-rigging operation.

According to court documents, the sports betting conspiracy exploited confidential NBA information and included six defendants. The poker scheme involves more than 30 individuals, with three charged in both cases.

One indictment lists 32 defendants, including former NBA player and coach Damon Jones and Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups. Both face charges of wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy.

Additional charges across the cases include operating an illegal gambling enterprise, extortion conspiracy, and robbery conspiracy.

Oct 23, 2025 at 10:27 AM EDT

Prosecutors outline charges in expansive gambling probe

Federal prosecutors are continuing to detail charges against dozens of defendants in a sprawling investigation tied to illegal gambling and organized crime.

According to U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella, the cases are “related, but separate,” and involve a wide range of alleged criminal conduct. He emphasized that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Still, Nocella issued a pointed warning: “Your winning streak has ended. Your luck has run out.”

Oct 23, 2025 at 10:19 AM EDT

FBI links NBA gambling case to four major Mafia families

Patel said that four of the five most notorious Mafia families are connected to the federal gambling investigation involving NBA figures.

“Not only did we crack into the fraud that these perpetrators committed on the grand stage of the NBA,” Patel said, “but we also entered and executed a system of justice against La Cosa Nostra to include the Bonanno, Gambino, Genovese, and Lucchese crime families.”

Patel did not elaborate further but indicated more details on organized crime’s role in the case would be released soon.

Oct 23, 2025 at 10:17 AM EDT

FBI Director: NBA gambling case involves ‘mindboggling’ fraud

FBI Director Kash Patel joined New York officials Thursday to announce a “wide sweeping criminal enterprise” involving illegal gambling and sports rigging.

Patel said the multi-year operation led to more than 30 arrests across 11 states, with charges including wire fraud, money laundering, extortion, robbery, and illegal gambling.

“The fraud is mindboggling,” Patel said during a morning press conference. “We’re talking about tens of millions of dollars.”

Oct 23, 2025 at 10:17 AM EDT

Indictments to be unsealed in NBA gambling probe, 31 in custody

Federal prosecutors are preparing to unseal indictments in a sweeping illegal gambling investigation that has already led to the arrests of more than two dozen individuals, including NBA figures Terry Rozier and Chauncey Billups.

John Marzulli, spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York, confirmed Thursday that both men will be arraigned later today. Rozier is scheduled to appear in court in Florida, while Billups will be arraigned in Portland.

“I believe there's about 31 people in custody, and others will be there, will be some who will self-surrender,” Marzulli said.

The case spans two related investigations and includes alleged ties to organized crime. Additional names are expected to be revealed once the indictments are made public.

Oct 23, 2025 at 10:14 AM EDT

Tommy Gelardo arrested in federal gambling investigation

Tommy Gelardo was arrested Thursday morning as part of a widening federal investigation into illegal gambling activity, an FBI spokesperson confirmed to NBC News.

Gelardo is among several individuals taken into custody in connection with two related cases involving organized crime and alleged manipulation of sports betting markets.

Oct 23, 2025 at 10:10 AM EDT

Chauncey Billups to be arraigned in Portland

Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups is scheduled to be arraigned later today in Portland, where he resides, according to officials with the Eastern District of New York.

Billups was arrested Thursday morning in connection with a federal investigation into illegal gambling activity. Though his arraignment will take place locally, the charges are being brought in Brooklyn, where the case is being prosecuted.

Details of the allegations have not yet been released. Billups is one of several individuals arrested in the probe, which includes NBA players and alleged ties to organized crime.

Oct 23, 2025 at 10:07 AM EDT

Why was Portland Trail Blazer coach Chauncey Billups arrested?

Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups was arrested Thursday in Oregon in connection with a separate but related federal gambling investigation, according to ABC News. The case reportedly involves an illegal poker operation with ties to organized crime.

Billups is expected to make his initial court appearance later Thursday. Further details about the charges have not been released.

Billups, a former NBA champion and Finals MVP with the Detroit Pistons, was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2024. He has served as Portland’s head coach since 2021 and was on the sideline for the team’s season-opening loss to the Timberwolves.

Oct 23, 2025 at 09:58 AM EDT

Why was Miami Heat player Terrior Rozier arrested?

Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier was arrested Thursday morning at a hotel in Orlando, Florida, as part of a federal investigation into illegal sports betting. The arrest follows scrutiny over a March 2023 game in which Rozier, then with the Charlotte Hornets, exited early after a surge of suspicious wagers on his performance stats.

Sportsbooks flagged 30 bets totaling $13,759 placed on Rozier’s unders within 46 minutes, prompting a halt in betting activity. Rozier played just 10 minutes before citing a foot injury.

Rozier’s attorney, Jim Trusty, previously said his client met with NBA and FBI officials in 2023 and was told he had not violated any rules. The NBA also reviewed the incident and found no breach of league policy at the time.

Rozier, 31, is in the final year of a $96.3 million contract and was traded to Miami in January 2024. He did not play in the Heat’s season opener on Wednesday night.

Oct 23, 2025 at 09:52 AM EDT

Terry Rozier’s lawyer calls FBI arrest ‘photo op’ and ‘non-case’

In a statement to Newsweek, Terry Rozier's lawyer Jim Trusty said: "We have represented Terry Rozier for over a year. A long time ago we reached out to these prosecutors to tell them we should have an open line of communication. They characterized Terry as a subject, not a target, but at 6 a.m. this morning they called to tell me FBI agents were trying to arrest him in a hotel. It is unfortunate that instead of allowing him to self-surrender, they opted for a photo op. They wanted the misplaced glory of embarrassing a professional athlete with a perp walk. That tells you a lot about the motivations in this case. They appear to be taking the word of spectacularly incredible sources rather than relying on actual evidence of wrongdoing. Terry was cleared by the NBA and these prosecutors revived that non-case. Terry is not a gambler, but he is not afraid of a fight, and he looks forward to winning this fight."

Oct 23, 2025 at 09:52 AM EDT

Former NBA player Damon Jones arrested in Las Vegas, FBI confirms

The FBI has confirmed the arrest of former NBA player Damon Jones in Las Vegas as part of an ongoing investigation. Authorities did not release additional details about the charges or the circumstances surrounding the arrest.

Jones, who played for the Cleveland Cavaliers and multiple other teams during his professional career, is among several individuals reportedly detained in connection with a federal probe into illegal sports betting.

More information is expected to be released following a scheduled press conference by federal officials.

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Oct 23, 2025 at 09:47 AM EDT

Terry Rozier to appear in federal court Thursday afternoon

Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier is scheduled to make his initial appearance in federal court Thursday afternoon in Orlando, court officials confirmed.

Rozier was arrested earlier in the day as part of a sweeping FBI investigation into illegal sports betting involving NBA personnel. His court appearance is expected to take place between 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. ET.

The charges against Rozier have not yet been publicly detailed. He is among several individuals arrested in connection with the probe, which also includes Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups and former NBA player Damon Jones.

Federal prosecutors and FBI officials are expected to provide more information during a press conference later today in New York.

Oct 23, 2025 at 09:42 AM EDT

Why were Chauncey Billups and Terry Rozier arrested?

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Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier and Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups were arrested early Thursday in connection with a federal sports betting investigation, sources told ESPN and The Associated Press. Rozier was taken into custody at a hotel in Orlando hours after the Heat’s season opener, while Billups’ arrest was confirmed by a separate source familiar with the matter.

The FBI and the Eastern District of New York are expected to announce charges at a 10 a.m. ET news conference in New York City. Rozier is among six individuals accused of using insider information to place unlawful wagers, allegedly turning NBA competition into a criminal gambling scheme, according to ABC News.

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