In a stunning and unprecedented twist, Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups has been arrested by the FBI for alleged involvement in illegal gambling activities, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. The news broke just less than an hour after the Miami Heat’s Terry Rozier was taken into custody in a separate federal sports betting probe.
The development has sent shockwaves through the NBA, especially since Billups’ name had not surfaced in any prior rumors or investigations. The 47-year-old coach was on the sidelines less than 12 hours ago, leading the Blazers in their season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves. His sudden arrest raises serious questions about the scope of the FBI’s ongoing probe, which appears to be widening rapidly.
According to ABC News, law enforcement sources revealed that Billups has been charged in connection with an illegal poker operation tied to the Mafia. The 47-year-old was taken into custody in Oregon early Thursday morning and is expected to make his initial court appearance later today.
Chauncey Billups earned over $106 million on the court in 17 NBA seasons and is reportedly making around $4.75 million per year as head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers.
Billups, a respected former NBA champion and Finals MVP, had been in his fourth season as Portland’s head coach. His alleged involvement in gambling activities could have massive implications for the league, especially if it connects to ongoing integrity investigations involving players.
The FBI’s Eastern District office has not yet released official details, but a press conference is expected later today. For now, the NBA world remains in disbelief as one of its most shocking scandals in years continues to unfold.
