Trail Blazers to Pay Chauncey Billups During Leave of Absence?

The Portland Trail Blazers have decided not to compensate coach Chauncey Billups during his leave of absence. This decision follows Billups’ indictment on two counts related to money laundering and wire fraud conspiracy, stemming from a long-term investigation.

Chauncey Billups’ Legal Troubles

Last week, Billups was indicted in federal court, where he faces serious allegations. Law enforcement claims that he exploited his fame as a former NBA star to lure gamblers into rigged poker games.

NBA’s Response and Billups’ Suspension

• Billups was placed on immediate leave after his arrest at home in Lake Oswego.
• He must secure a significant bond with the federal court in the Eastern District of New York.
• In his absence, Billups will not receive his multimillion-dollar salary.

According to reports, neither Billups nor fellow suspended player Terry Rozier will be paid during their respective absences. While Rozier’s salary will be held in escrow pending the outcome of his case, no such arrangement exists for Billups.

Financial Background

Coaching the Trail Blazers, Billups earned approximately $4.7 million last season. In April, he received a significant raise with a three-year contract extension lasting through the 2027-28 season.

Indictments and Allegations

Billups’ case is part of a larger indictment involving 34 individuals across 11 states and millions of dollars. Prosecutors suggest he’s connected to underground poker games featuring former athletes who enticed gamblers into scams. Furthermore, he has an indirect link to a separate sports-betting scheme, although his name is not listed among the defendants in that matter.

The Behind-the-Scenes

The investigations reportedly involve well-known crime families, including the Bonanno, Gambino, Lucchese, and Genovese families. Billups, who took over as head coach in 2021, originally aimed to lead the Trail Blazers to significant success. However, due to injuries and roster changes, he ultimately found himself managing a young team in a rebuild.

Career Overview

• Billups has a coaching record of 117 wins and 212 losses over four seasons.
• This season began with hopes for improvement, but he only coached one game before his arrest.

Billups intends to contest all charges against him. His attorney, Chris Heywood, stated, “Chauncey Billups has never backed down. He plans to fight these allegations with the same tenacity that marked his 28-year career. We look forward to our day in court.”