The NBA Mafia Gambling Scandal intensified Thursday as federal investigators revealed that LeBron James’ private injury information was allegedly leaked by former teammate Damon Jones. The FBI’s indictment outlines a Mafia-run gambling operation involving 34 arrests, including Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier. Jones, a longtime friend of James, is accused of sharing insider details about the Lakers star’s injury status to benefit illegal bettors. The league has placed implicated personnel on leave and vowed full cooperation with authorities.
The NBA Mafia Gambling Scandal now threatens the league’s integrity and the reputations of its most prominent figures.
“Who” is involved? LeBron James, Damon Jones, Chauncey Billups, Terry Rozier, and 30 others. “What” happened? A Mafia-linked gambling ring used insider NBA information for profit. “When”? Arrests were announced Thursday, October 23, 2025. “Where”? The operation spanned multiple states, with poker games centered in Manhattan. “Why”? To exploit betting markets using non-public injury and game data. “How”? Through leaked information, rigged poker games, and coordinated betting activity.
FBI Indictment and Player Allegations
According to court documents, Damon Jones allegedly leaked LeBron James’ injury status before a February 9, 2023, game against the Milwaukee Bucks.
- Jones was serving as an unofficial assistant coach for the Lakers at the time.
- He reportedly messaged gamblers: “Get a big bet on Milwaukee tonight before the information is out!”
- James was ruled out hours later, and the Lakers lost the game.
Terry Rozier is accused of faking an injury during a March 2023 game to manipulate betting outcomes. Over $200,000 in wagers were placed before sportsbooks suspended betting on Rozier’s stats.
League and Analyst Reactions
FBI Director Kash Patel stated:
“We followed the money, and the law caught up. Cheating, corruption, and laundering have consequences.”
The NBA responded:
“We take these allegations with the utmost seriousness. The integrity of our game remains our top priority.”
Rozier and Billups were placed on immediate leave. Fans and analysts are calling for transparency and deeper investigations.
Impact on Teams and League Reputation
The scandal has disrupted team operations and raised concerns about internal security.
- The Trail Blazers and Heat must adjust without key personnel.
- LeBron James, though not accused, faces scrutiny over how private medical data was accessed.
The league’s credibility is under pressure, with comparisons drawn to the 2007 Tim Donaghy referee scandal.
Legal Proceedings and League Actions
The FBI investigation is ongoing, with more indictments possible.
- Court hearings for the 34 defendants are expected in the coming weeks.
- The NBA may revise its data access protocols and gambling compliance policies.
Fans await further updates as the NBA Mafia Gambling Scandal continues to unfold.
