A huge scandal rocked the NBA just as the 2025-26 season began. Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups was arrested, alongside others, in a gambling scandal. With the case set to be tried in Brooklyn Federal Court, Billups’ plea entry is now being reported.
The former NBA champion is accused of conspiring with the mafia to rig poker games. According to reports, Billups was allegedly involved in attracting victims to rigged poker games using his star power to defraud them. However, he will apparently be pleading not guilty in the case.
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“Billups is charged with fraud and money laundering conspiracy. He has denied wrongdoing through his attorneys,” Reuters reported. “Former Cleveland Cavaliers guard Damon Jones was also charged, along with alleged members of New York’s La Cosa Nostra organized crime families. They have all pleaded not guilty.”
Portland Trail Blazers Head Coach Chauncey Billups reacts against the Golden State Warriors. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-Imagn Images
The allegations against Billups go back to 2019, with reports that he helped defraud people out of at least $7 million. The Hall of Famer is a highly respected individual in NBA circles, but this controversy has tarnished his image.
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It will be interesting to see how the legal battle plays out, but Billups seems to be maintaining his innocence. With all the accused reportedly pleading not guilty, there is no way to tell how this saga will conclude.
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