FBI Director Kash Patel warned athletes and the public following the arrest of NBA players and coaches linked to illegal gambling.
The arrests involved Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups, Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier, and Cleveland Cavaliers assistant coach Damon Jones.
Patel explained, “The operation stretched across 11 states and spanned several years, resulting in more than 30 arrests so far, with officials warning that even more could follow as the investigation continues.”
He stressed the seriousness of the crimes: “Not only did we crack into the fraud that these perpetrators committed on the grand stage of the NBA, but we have also interred and executed a system of justice against La Cosa Nostra to include the Bonanno, Gambino, Genovese and Luchei crime families.”
The cases involve a sports betting ring with NBA players, some accused of faking injuries, and illegal high-stakes poker games connected to organized crime. Rozier was linked to the first case, while Billups was arrested in the second.
Patel’s warning highlighted the broader impact: “These arrests serve as a warning to anyone who thinks they can bypass the law. Illegal gambling—whether on the court or in high-stakes poker—is not tolerated.”
Sports radio host Craig Carton, who has discussed his own gambling struggles, echoed the message: “The NBA and the NBAPA are gravely concerned about gambling scandals like today’s. They brought me in to speak at the rookie symposium to walk every rookie through the dangers of gambling or associating with people who gamble.”
Patel’s comments reinforce that illegal gambling carries serious consequences, especially for professional athletes. “This serves as a reminder that no one is above the law,” he said.
