Portland Trail Blazers Coach Chauncey Billups Linked to Mafia-Run Illegal Poker Operation
Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups faces serious allegations linked to a Mafia-run illegal poker operation. This announcement, made on October 23, 2025, also implicated Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier in a separate but related illegal gambling case. Both individuals have been placed on immediate leave by their respective teams while the NBA conducts a review.
Details of the Allegations
Federal authorities disclosed that Billups is among 34 defendants charged in connection with these illegal activities. The poker games included players to enhance their credibility and were allegedly manipulated through advanced technology, including rigged shuffling machines and X-ray devices that can read cards.
- Charges Announced: October 23, 2025
- Poker Operations Commenced: 2019
- Financial Impact: Alleged profits reached $7 million and ongoing
Locations of the Poker Games
The illegal poker games were reportedly organized in various high-profile locations:
- Hamptons
- Manhattan
- Las Vegas
- Miami
During the two-year investigation, authorities discovered that some victims lost substantial amounts and faced intimidation when refusing to pay. FBI Director Kash Patel described the fraud as “mindboggling,” with theft, fraud, and robbery summing up to tens of millions of dollars.
Involvement of Other NBA Figures
The investigation, dubbed “Nothing But Bet,” also involves current and former NBA players and coaches, as well as 13 members of organized crime families. Rozier allegedly provided inside information regarding games, which was then utilized for betting, further breaching NBA regulations.
Terry Rozier’s Specific Charges
Rozier’s involvement included a specific instance on March 23, 2023, where he reportedly informed a co-defendant of his intended early exit from a game due to injury, leading to large bets being placed against his performance.
- Games Played: 665 in the NBA
- Average Points per Game: 13.9
Following his arrest, Rozier’s legal representation expressed his intent to contest the allegations vigorously. He emphasized that he was not a gambler and disputed the credibility of the sources behind the prosecution.
Implications for the NBA
The NBA has emphasized its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the game in light of these allegations. The league is actively cooperating with law enforcement as it investigates the thorough details surrounding this case.
This situation not only raises questions about Billups and Rozier but also regarding the credibility of the league as a whole amid ongoing sports betting discussions.
