NBA Trio and Mafiosi Arrested After FBI Investigation into Rigged Poker Game and Illegal Gambling

The Story so Far

Yesterday 31 defendants were tried under a seven-count indictment in criminal schemes to rig illegal poker games in New York, The Hamptons, Las Vegas, Miami, and more, using the famous faces of NBA players to lure unsuspecting players into a game they simply cannot win at. How you ask? Through a series of intricate devices, including an X-ray poker table, a rigged card-shuffling machine, secret cameras and special sunglasses, that ensured they knew what their opponent was holding. It seems ironic that this case emerges just shy of two weeks after the video featured below was released, which shows how a card shuffler can be hacked. This, however, did not serve as inspiration for the mafioso behind the game, as prosecutors have stated that the scheme dates back to early 2019.

Everyone at the table, including the dealer, was in on the scam, other than the unsuspecting “fish” who is looking forward to play in a fun cash game with members of the NBA, and probably some mobsters. The conspiracy is said to have cost victims out of $7,000,000, with one unlucky customer losing as much as $1,800,000 alone. The games were run by members and associates of the Bonanno, Genovese and Gambino crime families in New York, who have had control over New York’s Italian American mob scene since the 1930’s, along with the Colombo and Lucchese families. These families are a part of the infamous La Cosa Nostra which emerged from Sicily.

How It Worked

According to the Department of Justice, the modified shuffling machines were altered so they could read all the cards in the deck, determine which player would have the winning hand, and transmit that information off-site. the card information was passed to an “off-site member of the conspiracy,” then relayed via phone to a “Quarterback/Driver” at the table, who signalled to co-conspirator players, whether to bet, raise or fold.

Pictured above is the x-ray table that was used. As always, the game is a lot easier when you can see the cards, and the players not in on the scam had absolutely zero chance to win. There were analysers inside the chip trays too, that could also read cards. With the sunglasses, they worked as the cards were marked before the game using infra-red barcodes and special inks that could only be seen by a certain type of lens. Secretive cameras were planted around the room in light fixtures and tables, giving them even more information. Below is a statement on the case from am attorney involved in the case.

Sports Betting Scandal

Rozier, and retired NBA player Damon Jones were arrested in relation to betting irregularities. The former is alleged to have told his friend that he will pull himself from the game early through faking an injury, so that he should wager that Rozier will not make the overs line. He told others to bet “more than $200,000” on that outcome, which resulted in big wins for those involved, as he only put up five points before coming off. For Jones, its a double whammy, as he is involved in the rigged poker game, and leaking non-public news regarding the injury of “Player 3”, who has reported to be basketball all-time-great LeBron James. It is alleged Jones text someone to on February 2023 to: “Get a big bet on Milwaukee tonight” as the Lakers would be missing a certain player.

What’s Next?

More is sure to come from this story as more details emerge. Rozier’s lawyer has staunchly denied the allegations made against his client, saying:  “Terry is not a gambler, but he is not afraid of a fight, and he looks forward to winning this fight.” The tune sung by that of Billups’ lawyer is the similar, saying:

That’s all for now, folks. And just remember, make sure you know who you are really playing with and whether the game is fair. Until next time, stay tuned to pokerlistings.com.