The NBA is confronting a major controversy following the arrests of Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups, Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier, and former player Damon Jones. Authorities allege their involvement in extensive gambling operations that have shaken professional basketball.
Federal investigations reveal Rozier and associates shared confidential game details with bettors. This insider information generated substantial illegal profits. Several players reportedly remained unaware their private updates were exploited for gambling gains.
Court documents indicate Rozier tipped an associate about his planned early exit from a game while playing for Charlotte. Bettors wagered over $200,000 on his performance metrics. Rozier left the match after just nine minutes citing a foot injury.
Prosecutors confirm these bets yielded tens of thousands in profits. Rozier allegedly later met a suspect at his residence to divide the earnings.
In a connected case, defendant Eric Earnest placed massive wagers against the Trail Blazers. He received inside information from “co-conspirator 8” about the team’s plan to rest key players. This “tanking” strategy aimed to improve draft position.
These $100,000+ bets proved highly successful. The unidentified “co-conspirator 8” matches Billups’ career timeline as a former player and current coach. Billups faces separate charges related to allegedly rigged mafia-connected poker games.
Damon Jones was implicated through leaked injury information. While informally associated with the Lakers, Jones reportedly texted a contact about LeBron James’ ankle issue before its public announcement. His message urged: “Get a big bet on Milwaukee tonight before the information is out!”
The Bucks defeated the Lakers 115-106 with James absent. The NBA has not yet issued official comments. League officials are reportedly formulating disciplinary measures as FBI investigations proceed.
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