FBI Arrests Dozens in Mafia-Linked NBA Probe

Dozens were arrested in an FBI probe of illegal sports betting and rigged poker games tied to New York mafia families, including Portland coach Chauncey Billups and Miami guard Terry Rozier, who face money‑laundering and wire‑fraud conspiracy charges. FBI Director Kash Patel rejected on Fox News the suggestion that the takedown was politically motivated, saying the multi‑state, years‑long investigation dates back to at least 2019, stressing its organized‑crime ties and that he, not the White House, directs arrests. ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith had suggested on air the timing signaled a politically motivated “revenge” campaign by President Donald Trump and warned “he’s coming,” and Smith later clarified on social media while standing by his warning. The public dispute between media figures and the FBI has become a focal point as outlets and officials debate motive, legality and the broader political implications of the arrests.