Several NBA figures, including Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups, Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier, and former player and coach Damon Jones, have been arrested in a federal crackdown on illegal gambling and organized crime activities.
The arrests, announced on October 23, 2025, are part of a broader investigation into rigged poker games and insider betting schemes linked to major crime syndicates.
Chauncey Billups, a Hall of Famer and respected coach, was taken into custody in Oregon over allegations that he participated in high-stakes poker games rigged by Mafia families including the Bonanno, Genovese, and Colombo organizations. Authorities claim that these games were held across cities such as Las Vegas, Manhattan, and the Hamptons, with organized crime groups collecting portions of the winnings and using intimidation to enforce payments.
Terry Rozier was arrested in Orlando for his alleged involvement in insider betting activities. According to the FBI, Rozier provided non-public information about NBA games to associates, allowing them to place bets based on privileged knowledge. One example under review involves a 2023 game where Rozier allegedly exited early, facilitating approximately $200,000 in bets. Rozier’s attorney has denied the allegations, citing prior NBA clearance.
Damon Jones, a former NBA player and assistant coach, is accused of participating in both schemes. Reports indicate he assisted the Mafia in organizing rigged poker games and allegedly laundered profits using cryptocurrency. Jones has previously served as an assistant coach with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Los Angeles Lakers, adding prominence to the case.
In response to the arrests, the NBA has placed Billups and Rozier on administrative leave. The Portland Trail Blazers have appointed an interim coach while the Miami Heat are yet to announce staffing adjustments. League officials emphasized that preserving the integrity of professional basketball is a top priority, and they are cooperating fully with federal authorities.
The FBI’s investigation has led to charges against more than 30 individuals nationwide, targeting organized crime involvement in gambling, wire fraud, extortion, and money laundering. The crackdown reflects federal authorities’ ongoing efforts to combat illegal gambling and protect the integrity of professional sports in the United States.
