On October 23, 2025, just two days into the new NBA season, federal agents launched an unprecedented nationwide raid that sent shockwaves through the basketball world. The FBI moved with military precision across 11 states, arresting over 30 individuals in what officials are calling the biggest corruption scandal in NBA history since the 2007 Tim Donaghy referee betting case. Among those taken into custody were current and former NBA figures, including Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier, Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups, and former NBA player and coach Damon Jones.

The investigation, led by FBI Director Kash Patel, uncovered two massive illegal operations: Operation Nothing But Bet, a sports gambling ring that exploited insider information from NBA players and coaches, and Operation Royal Flush, a high-stakes poker rigging scheme tied to organized crime families. Federal indictments revealed deep links to four of New York’s infamous mafia groups — the Gambino, Genovese, Bonanno, and Lucchese families — making this not just a sports scandal but a major organized crime case.

Terry Rozier, a 31-year-old guard who has earned over $150 million during his NBA career, was accused of leaking non-public information about his injuries and playing time to betting associates. In several games between 2023 and 2024, he allegedly informed others when he planned to leave games early, allowing them to place huge wagers on “under” prop bets that were virtually guaranteed to win. One such game, on March 23, 2023, allegedly saw $200,000 in bets placed based on Rozier’s insider tip. The FBI arrested Rozier mid-season in Orlando, shocking fans during the Miami Heat’s opener against the Magic.

Chauncey Billups, a Hall of Famer, 2004 Finals MVP, and current Trail Blazers head coach, was implicated in the separate poker-rigging scheme. Prosecutors described Billups as a “face card” — a celebrity participant used to attract wealthy victims to illegal, fixed poker games that used advanced cheating technology. Modified shuffling machines, marked cards visible only through special contact lenses, and even X-ray poker tables were used to ensure that only insiders could win. Victims believed they were playing with legitimate stars, not realizing every card and move was manipulated.

Damon Jones, a former NBA player and assistant coach, was reportedly the bridge between NBA insiders and professional gamblers. He allegedly sold information about superstar player availability, possibly including LeBron James, to betting groups. His dual role in both the betting and poker operations made him a central figure in the investigation.

In total, 34 people were charged, including members of major mafia families, bookies, tech experts, and enforcers. The schemes generated millions in illegal profits, laundered through cryptocurrencies, wire transfers, and cash. The FBI’s investigation, which began after detecting suspicious betting patterns in 2023, included over 3,000 recorded meetings and calls, and even an undercover informant who participated in rigged games.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, who had long supported legalized sports betting, expressed deep concern, admitting he had “a pit in his stomach” upon learning of the arrests. Critics like sports analyst Bill Simmons noted the hypocrisy of the league’s heavy promotion of betting partnerships while now facing a crisis rooted in gambling abuse.

The Department of Justice has stated that the investigation remains ongoing, with potential for additional arrests. Reports suggest that other current and former players — including Malik Beasley — may still be under scrutiny. The scandal has raised serious questions about the integrity of professional basketball and the NBA’s relationship with the gambling industry.