Gambling Probe
Chauncey Billups pleads not guilty in rigged poker case
Ti AI ṣe iroyin Àwòrán tí AI ṣe
Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups pleaded not guilty on Monday to federal charges of wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy related to rigged poker games backed by the Mafia. The Hall of Famer was arraigned in Brooklyn federal court as one of 31 defendants in the sprawling case dubbed Operation Royal Flush. Billups was released on $5 million bail secured by his Colorado home.
NBA free agent Malik Beasley has agreed to join the Santurce Crabbers in Puerto Rico's Baloncesto Superior Nacional league, which is partially owned by musician Bad Bunny. The signing comes as the NBA continues its investigation into federal allegations of gambling against Beasley. The move allows Beasley to play professionally while awaiting potential NBA opportunities.