Former NBA player and coach Damon Jones recently pleaded not guilty to charges related to illegal gambling activities, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering. These charges arise from two separate investigations into unlawful gambling operations, involving both a poker ring and an NBA betting scheme. Jones, who has a lengthy career in professional basketball, is one of three defendants implicated in these cases.
To secure his release while awaiting trial, Jones posted a $200,000 bond, using his mother and stepfather’s home as collateral. The allegations against him include providing insider information about NBA games that could potentially influence betting outcomes. Specifically, prosecutors claim Jones informed someone close to him that a "prominent" Los Angeles Lakers player—widely believed to be LeBron James—would not participate in a game on February 9, 2023, before this information became public knowledge. LeBron James ultimately did not play in that game due to an ankle injury. This particular game occurred shortly after James made history by becoming the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, having scored 38 points just two days prior.
In addition to the tip-off regarding James, Jones reportedly shared inside information about another top Lakers player, speculated to be Anthony Davis, almost a year later. This information pertained to Davis’ injury status and how it might affect his performance. However, that tip did not result in the intended outcome because Davis performed well, and the Lakers won the game.
Beyond the betting allegations, Jones is also accused of participating in and profiting from rigged poker games. According to court documents, he was used as a “face card” along with former NBA star Chauncey Billups to attract victims into these illegal poker games, leveraging their celebrity status to coerce participation. The Department of Justice highlighted messages in which Jones responded positively to coaching on how to cheat, saying, "Lol man y'all call Djones in cause y'all know I know what I'm doing!!"
Jones, undrafted out of the University of Houston in 1997, enjoyed an 11-season NBA career that spanned 10 teams and earned him over $20 million. Known as a journeyman, he played alongside many prominent stars, including LeBron James during his time with the Cleveland Cavaliers from 2005 to 2008. He also shared the court with Dwyane Wade and Shaquille O’Neal when he was with the Miami Heat. After retiring as a player, Jones transitioned into coaching, notably serving as an assistant coach for the Cavaliers when they won the NBA championship in 2016 with James on the roster. Most recently, Jones joined the Lakers’ coaching staff for the 2022-2023 season in an unofficial, unpaid capacity.
Chauncey Billups, also a former NBA player, has been arrested in connection with the illegal poker scheme as well. Both Jones and Billups allegedly played key roles in facilitating illegal gambling activities by leveraging their public profiles to lure unsuspecting participants into rigged games.
The investigations into these gambling operations have led to more than 30 arrests so far, highlighting the widespread nature of the illegal activities. Damon Jones is scheduled to return to court on November 24 to address the charges against him.
This case sheds light on the persistent allure of gambling, power, and mafia ties within the world of professional sports. It also raises questions about why athletes and sports figures might risk their careers and reputations by engaging in illicit gambling schemes. The involvement of high-profile individuals in these cases underscores the challenges leagues and law enforcement face in maintaining the integrity of sports competitions.
As the legal proceedings continue, the sports community and fans alike will be watching closely to see how these cases unfold and what impact they may have on the NBA and the wider sports gambling landscape. For ongoing coverage of this story and other sports news, Fox News Digital provides updates through its website, social media channels, and newsletters.