NBA Coaches Billups, Lue Linked to FBI-Targeted Alleged Mafia Poker Scandal

The NBA is facing a major controversy involving illegal gambling and alleged Mafia ties, with over 30 arrests including high-profile figures like Miami Heat's Terry Rozier and Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups. Billups is charged with running rigged underground poker games dating back to 2019, winning more than $7 million, and Rozier faces accusations related to illegal sports betting. LA Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue has been reported to have attended one of these alleged rigged poker games, though he has not been accused of wrongdoing or named in indictments. Journalist Pablo Torre revealed that Lue was present at a 2019 game in Las Vegas, often seen in the offseason poker scene, but did not play at the same table as Billups, whom he calls a close friend and later hired as a Clippers assistant. Former NFL star Antonio Gates was also mentioned as having hosted and played in a similar alleged rigged poker game but denies any involvement or accusations. The scandal has provoked widespread fan reactions and concerns over the integrity of the league, with NBA officials yet to make detailed public comments.