The NBA’s opening week has been overshadowed by shocking news of federal investigations into illegal sports betting and rigged poker games — leading to the arrests of Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups, Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier, and former player and assistant coach Damon Jones.
The arrests, part of a wide-ranging probe involving Mafia-backed gambling operations, have stunned the basketball community and raised urgent questions about the league’s growing ties to sports betting.
League Reacts to Arrests
Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said the team was reeling after Rozier’s arrest.
“Terry is very dear to all of us,” Spoelstra said. “He’s had a real positive impact in our locker room, and we’re sending him our thoughts and support as he goes through this.”
Indiana Pacers coach and coaches’ association president Rick Carlisle described it as “a shocking day,” adding that he had reached out to Billups.
“This is a very serious situation,” Carlisle said. “Just yesterday our legal counsel reminded us of the strict gambling regulations. It’s a different world now with legalized betting.”
Detroit Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff, a longtime friend of Billups, urged patience.
“I’ve known him since I was in seventh grade. I care about him deeply,” Bickerstaff said. “People need to allow due process to happen.”
Golden State’s Draymond Green also expressed disbelief:
“It’s a tough moment for the league. I was shocked. I wish everyone involved the best.”
Concerns Over Sports Betting’s Influence
The arrests have reignited debate over the NBA’s relationship with sports betting.
Boston Celtics star and NBPA vice president Jaylen Brown criticised the lack of protection for players:
“We don’t benefit from any of the profits, but we deal with the extra negativity and scrutiny. There’s been little to no conversation about protecting players — it’s all about revenue.”
Chicago Bulls centre Nikola Vucevic said gambling has changed fan behaviour.
“Before, people said, ‘Go get the win.’ Now it’s, ‘Hey, my parlay needs 10 rebounds.’ It’s disrespectful to the game.”
League Officials Stress Education
Coaches such as Orlando’s Jamahl Mosley and Bickerstaff said they’re increasing team discussions on gambling awareness.
“The league sends memos and training videos,” Mosley said. “This is another reminder to keep educating our players.”
Balancing Growth and Integrity
As the NBA deepens its partnerships with betting companies, players like Stephen Curry insist most understand the boundaries.
“Everyone’s mindful of what to do and what not to do,” Curry said. “The integrity of the game is fine.”
Meanwhile, Draymond Green argued the issue extends beyond league sponsorships.
“Whether or not the NBA partners with betting companies, gambling access isn’t going away,” he said. “It’s on our phones. It’s the world we live in.”
The FBI’s investigations are ongoing, and the NBA has yet to issue a formal statement beyond confirming its cooperation with authorities.