What A Day FBI Takes Down NBA-Mafia Gambling Ring
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Oct 24, 2025 Mike Vorkunov, a national NBA business reporter for The Athletic, joins to discuss a recent FBI investigation into a significant gambling ring linked to the NBA, resulting in over 30 indictments, including prominent players and coaches. He highlights the NBA's vulnerability due to the influence of individual players and the rise of prop bets. Vorkunov also delves into the interconnected cases of rigged poker and insider betting, and how the league's partnerships with sportsbooks raise concerns about integrity amidst record sports betting revenues.
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Two Linked Federal Cases Expose Network
- The DOJ unveiled two related indictments linking NBA insiders to an illegal sports-betting scheme and a rigged poker ring.
- The cases involve over 30 arrests including current and former players and alleged mafia cooperation.
Sports Betting Rapidly Normalized And Profitable
- Sports betting has grown dramatically since legalization, reaching $13.7 billion in 2024 and raising public concern.
- Increased advertising and league partnerships have normalized gambling around games.
Billups Allegedly A 'Face Card' For Rigged Games
- Chauncey Billups is alleged to have helped set up rigged poker games and served as a 'face card' to lure victims.
- The indictment accuses him of cooperating with organized crime to stage and control those games.