Blazers’ Chauncey Billups has pleaded not guilty to poker scandal charges
Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups pleaded not guilty on charges of wire fraud, conspiracy and money laundering in federal court in Brooklyn on Monday morning. This course of action was expected, as the 2024 Naismith Hall of Famer and 2004 NBA Finals MVP has maintained his innocence since his October 23 arrest for his alleged involvement in fixed poker games.
Prosecutors say Billups and other athletes used their fame to help the mob lure unsuspecting victims into high-stakes games that included X-ray card tables and altered shuffle machines. Billups and Damon Jones, who have pleaded not guilty to the same charges in addition to being indicted in connection with the sports gambling case, are accused of knowingly helping the crime families defraud people of at least $7 million. The illegal scheme is said to date back to 2019.
The Blazers placed Billups on leave following his arrest, with 2014 NBA champion Tiago Splitter serving as interim head coach for the time being. If convicted, the 49-year-old could face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. Prosecutors will be tasked with proving that he deliberately played the role of a “face card” and that he was aware that the Mafia had defrauded victims through technology.
A total of 31 people are accused in this case. A long legal battle could ensue, but Chauncey Billups and his attorneys seem confident in their defense.
The retired guard helped the Detroit Pistons earn what is considered one of the most incredible championship victories in NBA history. ClutchPoints will keep you updated on any future developments regarding the charges Billups faces.
2025-11-24 17:44:00
