NBA Investigates Gambling Allegations Requesting Cell Phones from Multiple Teams Including Lakers Sources Report
The NBA is currently investigating allegations of illegal gambling involving multiple teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers. Sources indicate that the league has contacted teams for documentation and other property related to the probe.
NBA’s Investigation Overview
The investigation stems from federal charges filed last month by the Department of Justice. The NBA is responding to heightened scrutiny from Congress, which has queried the league about its failure to uncover credible evidence of player and coach involvement in a scheme that exploited private information for betting purposes.
Key Events Leading to Investigation
- Terry Rozier of the Miami Heat and Chauncey Billups, head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers, were charged with gambling-related offenses.
- Damon Jones, a former player and shooting coach for LeBron James, faces charges for selling private injury information about Lakers players.
The NBA has engaged the law firm Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz to spearhead the inquiry. This firm is responsible for reaching out to teams to collect cell phones and other relevant items as part of the investigation.
Cooperation from Lakers Staff
At least ten employees from the Lakers are expected to provide documents and phone records. Notably, assistant trainer Mike Mancias and executive administrator Randy Mims have already cooperated by submitting their cell phones for scrutiny.
Both Mancias and Mims have strong ties to LeBron James, raising questions about their relationships with Jones, who is under investigation. NBA officials have stated that all individuals involved have been fully cooperative during the inquiry.
Details of the Charges Against Damon Jones
- Damon Jones is accused of providing injury information on two star Lakers players to gamblers.
- On February 9, 2023, Jones allegedly informed a co-conspirator about a player’s absence in a game against the Bucks.
- Further charges state that on January 15, 2024, he sold information about another player’s injury before a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
These incidents have raised concerns over the integrity of the game, and the NBA is reviewing its protocols related to injury reporting. The league aims to improve transparency and minimize risks of similar incidents in the future.
Broader Implications for the League
This situation is not isolated to the Lakers. The NBA is also investigating similar allegations involving the Orlando Magic and the Portland Trail Blazers. Reports suggest an unnamed player from the Magic may have been involved in sharing information with gamblers regarding game strategies.
As part of ongoing investigations into betting schemes across the league, tighter rules about player injury disclosures are anticipated. The focus is on safeguarding the integrity of the game and maintaining trust among fans and stakeholders.
Looking Forward
The NBA’s investigation into gambling allegations is a developing story that will likely influence future policies and player conduct. With the involvement of several teams and high-profile individuals, the outcome could lead to significant changes within the league.
