UPDATE: Former NBA player Damon Jones was arrested on Thursday amid serious allegations of disclosing privileged injury information about LeBron James to facilitate illegal sports betting, authorities confirm. This shocking development is part of a broader investigation that has led to the arrest of 34 individuals, including Chauncey Billups, head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers, and Terry Rozier, guard for the Miami Heat.
The federal indictment reveals that Jones, who was on the periphery of the Los Angeles Lakers organization, texted a co-conspirator before a crucial game against the Milwaukee Bucks on February 9, 2023, urging them to “get a big bet on Milwaukee tonight” because James would not be playing due to an ankle injury. The Lakers lost that game 115-106.
This investigation, which has spanned nearly a dozen states and involved tens of millions of dollars, was confirmed by FBI Director Kash Patel. The authorities are also examining separate cases involving rigged poker games linked to organized crime.
“This investigation underscores the serious nature of illegal sports betting and its implications on the integrity of the game,” Patel stated.
Jones, who was not officially employed by the Lakers under current coach JJ Redick, had previously worked alongside former coach Darvin Ham. A source close to James stated that he was unaware of Jones’ gambling activities during the 2022-23 season when the two were together.
In a chilling follow-up to the indictment, it is alleged that Jones provided non-public information related to a Lakers game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on January 15, 2024. The Lakers have declined to comment on the allegations against Jones.
This scandal raises significant questions about the integrity of sports betting and the potential impact on player performance and team dynamics. As the investigation unfolds, more details are expected to emerge, highlighting the urgent need for transparency and accountability in sports.
Stay tuned for updates as this developing story continues to evolve.
