Former Detroit Pistons star Chauncey Billups is facing charges in connection with a scheme to rig poker games that were backed by Mafia families, officials said.
Billups, who is currently the head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers, and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier were among more than 30 people charged in connection with two major gambling-related cases.
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Rozier is facing charges for participating in an illegal sports betting scheme and is accused of exploiting confidential information about NBA athletes and teams.
Billups is charged in a separate indictment and is accused of being involved in a nationwide scheme to rig illegal poker games. Officials said 31 defendants were involved in this case. They are accused of stealing millions of dollars from victims in underground poker games in the New York area, which were backed by Mafia families.
During a press conference on Thursday morning, FBI Director Kash Patel and other law enforcement officials said the case involves four of the five leading mafia families and organized crime networks.
Patel also said the amount of fraud is “mind-boggling.”
Billups has been charged with one count of wire fraud and one count of money laundering.
Rozier was taken into custody in Orlando, while Billups was arrested in Portland.
Both men are facing money laundering and wire fraud conspiracy charges.
Billups spent parts of eight seasons in Detroit, most notably leading the team to an NBA title in 2004 and a second Finals appearance in 2005.
In his eight seasons with the Pistons, Billups averaged 17.5 points, 6.6 assists, and 3.4 rebounds per game.
“Mr. Big Shot” made five All-Star teams, three All-NBA teams, and was the 2004 Finals MVP.