Blazers’ Coach Billups Denies Poker Charges in Court

Chauncey Billups, the head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers and a Hall of Fame basketball player, pleaded not guilty to serious charges in a federal court in New York City. The charges include money laundering and conspiracy to commit wire fraud, related to an alleged scheme involving illegal poker games associated with Mafia figures and at least one former NBA player.

Charges Against Billups

Billups, who was arraigned on November 24, 2025, faces potential penalties of up to 20 years in prison if convicted. His legal team emphasizes his integrity and disputes the accusations, arguing that it would be contrary to Billups’ character and legacy to engage in such illicit activities.

Background of the Case

This case emerged from a federal crackdown on illegal gambling operations linked to professional sports, involving over 30 individuals. The indictment was announced on October 23, 2025. Billups was identified as a key player in a scheme that purportedly rigged poker games in locations such as Manhattan, Las Vegas, and Miami.

Details of the Allegations

• Billups allegedly drew wealthy individuals into fraudulent poker games.
• Prosecutors claim he received a share of approximately $7 million in profits starting from 2019.
• One instance involved him allegedly receiving $50,000 after a rigged game in October 2020.

The organizers of the poker games reportedly used advanced technology for cheating, including modified card-shuffling machines and cameras. Billups is said to have been a “face card,” attracting unsuspecting players due to his celebrity status.

Involvement of Other Defendants

Among Billups’ co-defendants is former NBA player Damon Jones, along with Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier. They are implicated in a separate scheme that allowed bettors to exploit insider information about players to manipulate betting outcomes.

Billups’ Career Highlights

Billups, a celebrated figure in basketball, was a pivotal player in the Detroit Pistons’ 2004 championship run, earning the NBA Finals MVP title. Drafted as the third overall pick in 1997 by the Boston Celtics, he enjoyed a successful 17-year career across several teams.

Coaching Career

After retiring in 2014, Billups transitioned to broadcasting and later coaching. He was appointed head coach of the Trail Blazers in 2021 and recently secured a multi-year extension.

Following the recent developments, Billups has been placed on unpaid leave, and the Trail Blazers appointed former player Tiago Splitter as interim coach. The outcome of this case remains to be seen as the judicial process unfolds.