Damon Jones Arrested in NBA Betting, Poker Schemes

Former NBA player and coach Damon Jones was arrested Thursday as one of more than 30 people charged in two federal cases alleging illegal sports betting and rigged high-stakes poker games tied to organized crime. Indictments allege Jones sold or provided non-public injury and availability information—reported as the status of “Player 3” (identified in reporting as LeBron James) before a Feb. 9, 2023 Lakers-Bucks game and “Player 4” (reported as Anthony Davis) before a Jan. 15, 2024 game—so co‑conspirators could place bets. Prosecutors say Jones had unofficial access to Lakers locker rooms, planes and pregame workouts in 2022–23, texted bettors and received payments (one co-defendant reportedly placed a $100,000 bet and paid Jones $2,500). He is also accused of participating in schemes to rig poker games, allegedly being coached in real time about how to play hands, and authorities say the multi‑year investigation involves tens of millions of dollars. Other current and former NBA figures charged include Portland coach Chauncey Billups and Miami guard Terry Rozier; Jones is scheduled to appear in federal court and officials say LeBron James was unaware Jones shared information about his playing status.