Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier were among more than 30 people arrested October 23, 2025, in a sweeping federal investigation into illegal betting. Authorities say it involves both organized-crime-backed rigged poker games and insider sports-betting involving nonpublic NBA information.

What the Indictments Allege

Prosecutors detailed two parallel schemes: one involving rigged poker games tied to Mafia families, and another involving insider sports betting. Billups is charged in the poker case; Rozier is accused in the betting case of tipping off bettors with confidential NBA-related information.

Where & When Arrests Took Place

The arrests were conducted across multiple states. Billups was arrested in Oregon. Rozier was arrested in Florida (Orlando). Over 30 individuals were indicted in connection with these investigations.

Specific Allegations

Terry Rozier: Allegedly provided non-public information about player availability, injuries, or performance to associates, who placed bets. Reporting points to a March 2023 game where he left early with an injury that later drew scrutiny. Chauncey Billups: Accused of participating in high-stakes poker games that were rigged using fraudulent or manipulated devices. Prosecutors claim those poker games were backed by Mafia families.

Reactions — NBA & Teams

The NBA placed both Billups and Rozier on leave. The Trail Blazers and Miami Heat issued statements saying they were cooperating with authorities. The league emphasized that it takes integrity very seriously. Legal representatives for Rozier have denied wrongdoing and noted that Rozier had been cleared by NBA review in earlier related inquiries.

Legal Stakes & Potential Outcomes

The defendants face serious charges including wire-fraud, money-laundering and conspiracy. If convicted, they could face significant prison sentences and fines. Also, even without criminal convictions, NBA rules could impose suspensions or bans for conduct that undermines game integrity.

Broader Context

This case comes amid growing concern about how legalized sports betting can be abused when insiders share confidential information or when illegal gambling enterprises intersect with professional sports. It raises questions about monitoring, regulation, and how leagues protect themselves against betting-manipulation risk.

What’s Next

Prosecutors will file formal indictments and hold arraignments. The NBA’s internal review process may move in parallel. Court filings and official statements in coming weeks should shed more light on the evidence, timeline and possible plea negotiations or trial dates.