Trail Blazers Coach Chauncey Billups Denies Charges in Rigged Poker Games

Chauncey Billups, the head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers, has pleaded not guilty to serious charges relating to rigged poker games allegedly linked to organized crime. Billups, a renowned NBA figure and Hall of Famer, faced charges of money laundering and wire fraud in federal court in Brooklyn.

Legal Charges Against Chauncey Billups

On Monday, Billups appeared in court, where the charges were outlined. Each charge carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years. Prosecutors allege that he was involved in a scheme involving illegal poker games across several major cities, including:

• Manhattan
• Las Vegas
• Miami
• The Hamptons

Details of the Poker Scheme

The prosecution claims that the operation employed sophisticated methods such as altered card-shuffling machines and hidden cameras to deceive players. An estimated $7 million was allegedly defrauded from victims since at least 2019.

Billups reportedly acted as a “face card” to entice affluent players into the games. He is accused of receiving illegal payments, including a $50,000 wire transfer following a rigged poker game in October 2020.

Background on Chauncey Billups

Billups, 49, had a distinguished NBA career, playing for multiple teams and winning a championship with the Detroit Pistons in 2004. He earned the nickname “Mr. Big Shot” for his talent in making crucial plays during high-pressure moments.

After retiring in 2014, Billups transitioned into coaching, securing his role with the Trail Blazers in 2021. Earlier this year, he signed a multi-year contract extension with the team.

Implications of the Arrest

Following his indictment, Billups was released on a $5 million bond, secured by his family home in Colorado. His legal stipulations include refraining from gambling, surrendering his passport, and limiting his travel to seven states.

The Trail Blazers have placed him on unpaid leave, appointing assistant coach Tiago Splitter as interim coach during this tumultuous period.

Next Steps in the Case

Billups and his co-defendants are set to return to court on March 4 for further proceedings. This case is part of a larger federal investigation targeting illegal gambling operations connected to professional sports.

As discussions regarding plea deals proceed, the situation continues to evolve, with many watching to see how this high-profile case unfolds.