The Sports Betting Scheme
Damon Jones pleaded guilty to selling nonpublic information about NBA injuries to sports bettors. He tipped off gamblers before a February 9, 2023 game between the Lakers and Bucks, texting an unnamed co-conspirator to place bets on Milwaukee before the information became public. LeBron James was out that night with a sore left ankle and foot, and Milwaukee won 115-106. Jones also sold or attempted to sell information about former Lakers forward Anthony Davis being injured and unavailable for certain games.
The Rigged Poker Scheme
Jones was charged with participating in rigged poker games that used sophisticated cheating equipment including altered shuffling machines, hidden cameras, special sunglasses, and X-ray equipment built into tables. He was paid $2,500 for a game in the Hamptons where he was instructed to cheat by collaborating with others in the scheme. When told to fold his hand, Jones responded by texting 'Y'all know I know what I'm doing!!'
The Wider Gambling Sweep
Jones became the first person to plead guilty in a sweeping gambling investigation that resulted in more than 30 arrests. Other defendants included reputed mobsters, Portland Trail Blazers head coach and Hall of Famer Chauncey Billups, and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier. Jones was one of three defendants charged in both the poker and sports betting schemes. None of the other defendants have shown willingness to plead guilty.
Jones' Background and Connection to LeBron James
Jones, 49, played for 10 NBA teams over an 11-year career from 1999 to 2009, earning more than $20 million. He played alongside LeBron James in Cleveland from 2005 to 2008, and later served as an unofficial assistant coach for James' Los Angeles Lakers during the 2022-2023 season. Originally from Galveston, Texas, he was arrested in October 2025 as part of the wide-ranging probe.
Legal Proceedings
Jones pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud on April 28, 2026, before Magistrate Judge Joseph Marutollo in Brooklyn Federal Court. His sentencing was scheduled for January 6, 2027. The government recommended a sentence of 21 to 27 months in prison. He remains free on bail. 
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