FBI Arrests Over 30 in Mafia-Linked NBA Scheme

Federal authorities unsealed a multi‑year, multi‑state probe into illegal sports betting and mafia‑linked rigged poker games that led to more than 30 arrests on charges including wire fraud, money laundering, extortion, robbery and unlawful gambling. Indictments name NBA figures including Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier—accused of supplying nonpublic lineup and injury information to betting syndicates—and Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups, who is accused of participating in organized rigged poker operations; former player/coach Damon Jones is also charged. Prosecutors say four New York crime families—Bonanno, Gambino, Genovese and Lucchese—ran poker scams using sophisticated cheating methods and provided insider tips used to place lucrative bets affecting games involving the Hornets, Lakers, Raptors and Trail Blazers. Authorities estimate the rigged poker schemes cost victims millions and that related sports‑betting fraud reached into the tens of millions. The NBA has placed accused individuals on leave or suspended them while it reviews the matter and cooperates with investigators.