The FBI announced the arrest of over 30 individuals, including Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier, as part of a federal investigation into an alleged illegal gambling and sports rigging operation tied to organized crime. Former NBA player Damon Jones was also detained in connection with the probe.
FBI Director Kash Patel described the operation as a “historic arrest” targeting a criminal enterprise involving both the NBA and La Cosa Nostra. He stated the agency conducted a coordinated takedown across 11 states, apprehending suspects allegedly involved in fraud against professional sports and mafia families. The investigation uncovered schemes to manipulate games using “high-tech cheating technology,” according to prosecutors, who linked the activities to the Bonanno, Gambino, Genovese, and Lucchese crime families.
The NBA confirmed that Rozier and Billups were placed on immediate leave from their teams, emphasizing its commitment to upholding the integrity of the sport. The league stated it would cooperate with authorities as the case continues.
Details revealed that the indictment included 31 defendants accused of orchestrating a nationwide scheme to rig poker games and sports betting. Reports suggested Rozier allegedly participated in a plot to manipulate game statistics for financial gain, though his legal team contested the allegations.
Terry Rozier’s attorney criticized the FBI’s actions, calling the arrests a “photo op” aimed at undermining professional athletes. He claimed prosecutors had previously deemed Rozier a “subject, not a target,” but later escalated the case despite no evidence of wrongdoing. The lawyer emphasized Rozier’s denial of gambling involvement and his readiness to fight the charges.
