Insider details meeting in Portland following Chauncey Billups’ arrest

After the appointment of assistant coach Tiago Splitter as the interim head coach instead Chauncey BillupsPortland Blazers GM Joe Cronin addressed the team afterward Billups’ arrest by the FBI as part of a gambling investigation. The news about the team’s head coach sent shockwaves through the locker room, sources told NBA Insider Chris Haynes.

Cronin addressed the Blazers with shocking news surrounding Billups and who will take over, the sources said, according to Haynes.

“Sources have informed me that Trail Blazers general manager Joe Cronin has gathered his team, along with the coaching staff, to update them on the news. Sources have told me that the players are silent,” Haynes said. “They were shocked and no one had a question. It was so quiet. Joe Cronin then said that no one should try to contact Chauncey Billups while this investigation is ongoing.”

Then assistant coach Thiago Splitter announced that he would be the interim head coach.

“Sources told me that Tiago Splitter took the floor and said the goals remain the same,” Haynes added. “He also added that he’s in charge and wants to keep everything afloat until they get their coach back. The last thing I want to note is that the Trail Blazers have actually offered an interim job to assistant coach Nate Bjorkgren.”

Sources: Inside the Dark Meeting Portland Trail Blazers left the players speechless. As news of Chauncey Billups’ alleged involvement in an illegal gambling ring was delivered to the team. pic.twitter.com/ciotndisid

— Chris Haines (@ChrisBHaines) October 25, 2025

In a 139-119 victory over the Golden State Warriors, the Blazers earned their first win of the regular season on Friday. An impressive win over a team with championship aspirations who entered the night 2-0. Danny Avdia led eight players in double figures with 26 points, including Jerami Grant (22 points), Tumani Kamara (19 points) and Shaddon Sharp (17 points).

The Blazers released their first statement since Chauncey Billups’ arrest

NBA commissioner Adam Silver is saddened by the arrest of Chauncey Billups. Silver also commented on Heat veteran Terry Rozier, who was also arrested in connection with the FBI’s illegal gambling investigation. The Blazers released the following statement since Billups was taken into custody.

“We are aware of the allegations involving head coach Chauncey Billups, and the Portland Trail Blazers are fully cooperating with the investigation. Billups has been placed on leave immediately, and Tiago Splitter will take over as head coach in the interim. “Any further questions should be directed to the NBA.”

Splitter and the Blazers will face the Clippers on Sunday.