NBA’s Terry Rozier and Chauncey Billups Arrested in Betting Probe

Federal authorities announced on March 7, 2024, that several individuals, including current and former NBA players and a coach, have been arrested as part of a sweeping investigation into illegal sports betting and organized crime. Among those detained are Chauncey Billups, head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers, and Terry Rozier, who has been playing for the Miami Heat since 2024.

Billups was arrested in Portland, while Rozier was taken into custody in Orlando. The investigation has also led to the arrest of former NBA player Damon Jones, highlighting the depth of the alleged criminal activity. According to sources from the New York City Police Department (NYPD), these arrests are linked to two significant federal criminal cases.

One case focuses on a sports betting operation involving both current and former NBA players. Authorities allege that some individuals within this group faked injuries to manipulate betting outcomes. The second case centers on illegal high-stakes poker games allegedly coordinated by organized crime figures, with at least 31 individuals charged in connection to this operation.

FBI Director Kash Patel described the arrests as “extraordinary,” emphasizing that they represent a “coordinated takedown across 11 states.” He noted that this operation not only targets fraud within the NBA but also disrupts organized crime networks, specifically mentioning the involvement of notorious families such as the Bonanno, Gambino, Genovese, and Luchese crime families.

The NBA has not yet issued a public statement regarding the arrests. This incident adds to a growing list of high-profile cases associated with illegal betting within the league. Earlier this year, former NBA player Gilbert Arenas was similarly arrested for allegedly running an illegal gambling operation from his California residence.

As the investigations continue, the implications for the NBA and its players are significant. The involvement of prominent figures like Billups and Rozier raises questions about the integrity of the league and its oversight of gambling-related activities. Further developments are expected as federal authorities continue to unravel the complexities of these cases.