Damon Jones Pleads Not Guilty in NBA Gambling Scandal

Damon Jones, a former NBA player and assistant coach, has pleaded not guilty to serious charges linked to an extensive gambling scandal. According to ESPN, Jones entered his plea in federal court in Brooklyn, where he was informed of multiple charges, including wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy. These charges stem from allegations that he profited from rigged poker games and provided insider information about NBA players' injuries to sports bettors. His attorney, Kenneth Montgomery, indicated that plea negotiations might be underway as Jones remains free on a $200,000 bond, which is secured by his family's home in Texas. Court documents reveal that Jones is prohibited from gambling or contacting organized crime figures as part of his bail conditions.

The scandal escalated following a federal sweep that led to the arrest of over 30 individuals, including notable figures from the NBA, such as Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier. CBS Sports reported that Jones allegedly sent a text message on February 9, 2023, indicating that LeBron James would not play in a game against the Milwaukee Bucks, prompting a co-conspirator to place a significant bet on the Bucks. This text was sent before James appeared on the team's injury report, and he later missed the game due to a lower-body injury. Prosecutors also allege that Jones was involved in luring players into rigged poker games, where he was compensated for his role in the scheme.

In one instance, he was accused of participating in a poker game in the Hamptons that involved various cheating mechanisms, including rigged shuffling machines and hidden cameras. Prosecutors mention that Jones received $2,500 for his involvement in these games, which were orchestrated in conjunction with organized crime families. Notably, the poker operation required participants to share proceeds with the Gambino, Genovese, and Bonanno crime families, who also engaged in violent activities to maintain control over their operations.

Both Billups and Rozier have yet to enter pleas regarding their respective roles in this scandal. Billups has been suspended by the Trail Blazers while the investigation continues, with Tiago Splitter serving as interim coach. Rozier has also been suspended without pay, a decision that the National Basketball Players Association is contesting, arguing that it contradicts the presumption of innocence. As this scandal unfolds, the NBA's ties to sports betting are under scrutiny, with league officials meeting with congressional representatives to discuss the implications of gambling within the sport. The next court appearance for Jones and other defendants is scheduled for November 24, further heightening the attention on this developing story.