FBI Arrests NBA Figures Chauncey Billups and Terry Rozier in Mafia-Linked Betting Scandal

On October 23, 2025, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) unsealed indictments and arrested over 30 individuals, including NBA figures Chauncey Billups and Terry Rozier, in connection with illegal sports betting and Mafia-backed poker schemes. The charges encompass conspiracy to commit wire fraud, illegal gambling, money laundering, and extortion.

Details of the Allegations

Chauncey Billups, head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers and former NBA star, was arrested in Portland, Oregon. He is accused of participating in rigged high-stakes poker games organized by Mafia families, utilizing advanced cheating technologies such as modified shuffling machines and marked cards. The operation reportedly defrauded victims of over $7 million.

Terry Rozier, a guard for the Miami Heat, was arrested in Orlando, Florida. He allegedly provided non-public game information to associates, enabling them to place bets based on insider knowledge. In a March 2023 incident, Rozier informed a co-conspirator of his plan to exit a game early due to a supposed injury, facilitating bets totaling approximately $200,000.

Background on Individuals

Chauncey Billups, known as "Mr. Big Shot" for his clutch performances, played for multiple NBA teams, including the Boston Celtics, Toronto Raptors, and Detroit Pistons, where he won a championship in 2004. He was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame and became head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers in 2021.

Terry Rozier began his NBA career with the Boston Celtics in 2015, later playing for the Charlotte Hornets and joining the Miami Heat in 2024. Known for his scoring ability and defensive prowess, Rozier has been a significant contributor to his teams.

Legal and Organizational Responses

The FBI's investigation spanned 11 states and involved extensive use of wire fraud, extortion, and money laundering. FBI Director Kash Patel described the charges as "extraordinary," highlighting the infiltration of organized crime into professional sports.

The NBA has placed both Billups and Rozier on immediate leave and is cooperating with authorities. In a statement, the NBA emphasized the importance of game integrity and announced an internal investigation.

The Portland Trail Blazers have named an interim coach following Billups' arrest.

Historical Context

This scandal is reminiscent of previous betting controversies in North American sports:

• 1919 "Black Sox" Scandal: Several Chicago White Sox players were banned for fixing the World Series.
• Pete Rose (1989): Banned for life from Major League Baseball for betting on games while managing the Cincinnati Reds.
• Jontay Porter (2024): NBA player banned for life for manipulating his game performance to profit from betting.

Social and Societal Implications

The arrests have raised significant concerns about the integrity of professional basketball and the potential influence of organized crime within the sport. The scandal underscores the vulnerabilities in the era of legalized betting, particularly regarding prop bets and insider information. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has advocated for federal betting regulation to address these issues.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the NBA and law enforcement agencies are expected to implement measures to prevent future incidents and restore public trust in the integrity of professional basketball.