Former NBA Coach Billups Arrested in Federal Gambling Conspiracy

Anfernee Simons, recently traded to the Boston Celtics, expressed shock and sadness over the arrest of his former Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups, who was charged in a Mafia-backed illegal poker scheme. Simons highlighted his close relationship with Billups, noting ongoing communication despite the trade, and described the situation as unfortunate for Billups and his family amid intense media scrutiny. Billups faces wire fraud and money laundering conspiracy charges, and an indictment also suggests he may have been involved in tipping off bets regarding a Trail Blazers game in March 2023, which Simons and other players sat out. Simons denied any knowledge or instruction to intentionally lose games during his time with Portland. The NBA has placed Billups and involved players like Terry Rozier on immediate leave as investigations continue, while players and the league’s union consider measures to protect players from illegal betting pressures. This scandal underscores the growing challenges professional sports face with illegal gambling following the legalization of sports betting nationwide.