EXPLAINED: NBA gambling scam 2025 — what exactly happened?

NBA gambling case explained.

On 23 October 2025, 34 people — including current and former National Basketball Association (NBA) players and a coach — were indicted over alleged involvement in rigged sports betting and poker games.

Here's a low down of what happened:

Who were the ones arrested?

Those arrested included Miami Heat’s Terry Rozier, ex-player Damon Jones, and Hall of Famer Chauncey Billups, now head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers.

How did the operation happen?

Billups was arrested in Oregon a day after the Blazers’ season-opening defeat to Minnesota, while Rozier was detained in Orlando during the Heat’s opener against the Magic.

When did the search operation start?

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and New York Police Department’s (NYPD) Joint Organised Crime Task Force began investigating illegal gambling linked to NBA figures in 2023, following suspicious betting activity around Rozier, who was later cleared.

What is the case based on?

The case centres on two related schemes — one involving rigged poker games, and the other illegal bets. Billups and Jones allegedly aided Mafia-run poker operations, with the mob taking a cut of the winnings and pursuing those in debt. Both also face charges of wire fraud and money laundering conspiracy.

What did the officials say?

Officials claim Terry Rozier faked an injury and conspired with others to place bets using confidential information about players and teams. The group allegedly wagered hundreds of thousands of dollars in fraudulent bets.

In the poker case, investigators say Billups and others lured victims into rigged poker games run by organised crime families. According to the BBC, they reportedly cheated players out of millions using x-ray poker tables and pre-marked cards.

How much did the victims lose?

According to official reports, victims have lost a whopping sum of about $7 million, with one person losing over $1 million.

What has the NBA said?

The NBA's statement on the burning issue on Thursday was as follows: "We are in the process of reviewing the federal indictments announced today.

“Terry Rozier and Chauncey Billups are being placed on immediate leave from their teams, and we will continue to cooperate with the relevant authorities. WE take these allegations with the utmost seriousness, and the integrity of our game remains our top priority.”