Brown: NBA Doesn’t Shield Players from Betting Issues

Boston Celtics forward Jaylen Brown has raised serious concerns regarding the NBA’s efforts to protect its players amid growing issues related to sports betting. His comments come in the wake of a significant gambling scandal that led to the arrests of notable figures in the sport.

NBA Players and Betting Concerns

Brown highlighted the increasing negativity surrounding the game due to gambling interests. “They think, ‘You make X amount of money, so you should handle the scrutiny that comes with it,’” he stated. This sentiment was expressed during a press conference at Madison Square Garden, just before the Celtics’ matchup with the New York Knicks.

Recent Arrests

On October 23, 2025, the FBI arrested 34 individuals, including Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier, as part of investigations into illegal sports betting. These investigations revealed alarming connections to organized crime.

• Chauncey Billups: Allegedly involved in rigged poker games and accused of alerting bettors about absent players.
• Terry Rozier: Allegedly informed someone that he would not play in a March 2023 game, enabling substantial betting on that match.

Concerns Over NBA’s Response

Despite these serious allegations, Brown expressed disappointment with the NBA’s lack of proactive measures to safeguard players from betting-related issues. As a vice president of the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA), he voiced the need for more discussions about player protection rather than simply focusing on revenue growth.

“There hasn’t been enough conversation about the aftermath of these situations,” he noted. Brown emphasized that addressing the players’ well-being should be as important as the league’s business interests.

Character and Integrity

While discussing Rozier’s situation, Brown defended his former teammate, suggesting that the allegations do not align with Rozier’s character. He has called for a thorough investigation to clarify the details surrounding these incidents and protect the affected players’ reputations.

“If they are found innocent, it’s vital that their public images are restored,” Brown added, stressing the importance of investigating these matters seriously.

As the NBA grapples with the implications of sports betting, the need for enhanced dialogue on player safety and integrity remains critical. Brown’s remarks underscore a pivotal moment for the league as it navigates these complex challenges.