Former NBA Star Gilbert Arenas Charged in Illegal California Poker Operation

Former NBA star Gilbert Arenas has been charged with operating an illegal high-stakes poker ring out of his Encino, California mansion between September 2021 and July 2022. Prosecutors allege Arenas, along with five co-defendants including Yevgeni Gershman, a suspected member of an Israeli organized crime group, organized and ran the poker games, collecting fees from players and hiring staff such as dealers, chefs, security, and young women to serve drinks and provide companionship. Text messages revealed in the indictment suggest the operation also involved solicitation of prostitution. Arenas faces three federal charges: conspiracy to operate an illegal gambling business, operating an illegal gambling business, and making false statements to federal investigators, each carrying up to five years in prison. He pleaded not guilty and was released on a $50,000 bond, with his trial scheduled for September 23, 2025. If convicted on all charges, Arenas could face up to 15 years in prison, while his co-defendants also face multiple charges including conspiracy and immigration-related offenses.