Key points:
- Malik Beasley is under investigation by the US Attorney’s Office for gambling activity allegedly tied to NBA games
- The investigation focuses on his 2023-24 season with the Milwaukee Bucks
- Beasley has not been charged; NBA and Pistons are cooperating with federal authorities
NBA’s Malik Beasley is under federal investigation for potential involvement in gambling activity connected to NBA games.
The probe is reportedly led by the US Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of New York and focuses on betting patterns during the 2023-24 season when Beasley played for the Milwaukee Bucks.
While no formal charges have yet been filed, Beasley’s attorney, Steve Haney, confirmed he is in communication with prosecutors. In official statements, Haney emphasised that Beasley “has not been charged with anything” and remains entitled to the presumption of innocence.
NBA’s spokesperson Mike Bass confirmed that the league is cooperating with the federal investigation. The Detroit Pistons, Beasley’s most recent team, are also aware of the probe and have deferred comment to the NBA.
Beasley had been in talks to return to the Pistons on a reported three-year, $42m contract, but those negotiations are now on hold.
Good to know:Former Toronto Raptors player Jontay Porter was banned after found to have disclosed confidential information to bettors and wagered on NBA games himself
This is not the first time Beasley has faced legal issues. In 2020, he pleaded guilty to a felony charge of threats of violence, resulting in a 12-game NBA suspension and jail time served after the 2020-21 season.
The NBA has faced increased scrutiny over the intersection of sports betting and player integrity, particularly following the rise of prop bets.