David Bridges
Chauncey Billups
Pleads Not Guilty
… In Federal Gambling Case
Published November 24, 2025 10:02 AM PST
AP
Chauncey Billups pleaded not guilty in a federal courthouse in Brooklyn on Monday, a month after he was arrested for allegedly helping the mafia rig underground poker games, a scandal that rocked the NBA.
The now-suspended Portland Trailblazers head coach was arraigned on charges relating to wire fraud and money laundering, appearing alongside 30 other defendants in the Eastern District of New York.
According to the feds, defendants, including members from four of the five crime families in NYC, would lure unsuspecting wealthy targets to card games under the guise they were legit … using celebrities like Billups to make them appear legit.
But, officials say they were anything but above board. Legal docs say organizers would use everything from X-ray tables, special contact lenses, fixed-deck shufflers, hidden cameras and more to rig the games, ultimately stealing millions.
In the meantime … Billups (as well as Heat guard Terry Rozier, who was also arrested) was placed on administrative leave by the NBA.
The 47-year-old was in his fifth year as Trailblazers head coach.
The judge said he intends to begin Billups’ trial in September 2026.
Key Points
- Charges: Chauncey Billups faces charges of wire fraud and money laundering.
- Context: He is alleged to have assisted in a mafia-run underground poker scheme.
- Trial Date: Billups’ trial is set to start in September 2026.
- Position: He was serving as the head coach of the Portland Trailblazers.
