UPDATE: Former NBA player Damon Jones was arrested Thursday for allegedly leaking privileged injury information about NBA superstar LeBron James to facilitate illegal sports betting, according to authorities. This shocking development is part of an extensive investigation that has also implicated Chauncey Billups, head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers, and Terry Rozier of the Miami Heat, among others.
The investigation, led by the FBI, spans nearly a dozen states and is centered on illegal betting activities totaling tens of millions of dollars. Jones, along with 33 others, was arrested as part of this sweeping crackdown on sports betting violations.
According to sources close to the situation, Jones disclosed that James would be out for a game against the Milwaukee Bucks on February 9, 2023. This information was allegedly communicated in a text to a co-conspirator, where Jones urged to “get a big bet on Milwaukee tonight” because James was sidelined with left ankle soreness. The Lakers ultimately lost that game, 115-106.
LeBron James, who recently became the NBA’s all-time leading scorer on February 7, 2023, is not accused of any wrongdoing. Sources indicate he was unaware of Jones’s involvement in illegal gambling activities during their time together.
The indictment outlines two significant cases: one concerning illegal sports betting and another involving rigged poker games allegedly linked to the Mafia. This startling news has sent shockwaves through the sports community, raising serious questions about the integrity of the game.
Jones, who had been an unofficial part of the Los Angeles Lakers coaching staff under former coach Darvin Ham, is now distanced from the team under current coach JJ Redick. The Lakers declined to comment on the ongoing investigation when approached by media outlets.
As this story continues to develop, analysts and fans alike are left questioning the potential ramifications for both the players involved and the broader landscape of professional sports. The implications of such activities could lead to increased scrutiny of betting practices and player interactions.
Authorities are expected to release more information as the investigation unfolds. For now, the sports world watches closely, awaiting further updates on this significant scandal.
