Chauncey Billups disputes charges, Terry Rozier released on bond as federal probe widens

Chauncey Billups’ legal situation grew clearer and more complicated on Thursday.

While not indicted in the same insider-betting case that led to Terry Rozier’s arrest, SI.com’s Chris Mannix reports that an unnamed individual in that probe, matching Billups’ description, was accused of sharing internal information about the Trail Blazers preparing to “go into tank mode” before a March 24, 2023 game.

Billups, however, faces separate charges in a related federal case tied to an alleged mafia-run poker operation. He was arraigned in Portland on counts of wire-fraud conspiracy and money-laundering conspiracy, according to Maxine Bernstein of The Oregonian.

The 49-year-old coach was released under strict conditions, including restricted travel to Oregon, Colorado, and New York (where his trial will take place), surrender of his passport, and a ban on gambling or contacting co-defendants, per Sean Highkin of The Rose Garden Report. He must also post a “substantial” bond.

Billups’ next court appearance is set for November 24 in Brooklyn. His attorney, Chris Heywood, said Billups “disputes the charges” and vowed to fight.

“Anyone who knows Chauncey Billups knows he is a man of integrity,” Heywood said in a statement. “He would not jeopardize his legacy, his reputation, or his freedom for anything, let alone a card game. Chauncey Billups has never and would never gamble on basketball or betray the trust of his team or the league.”

Billups was placed on immediate leave by the NBA after his arrest.

Rozier, also on leave, faced arraignment in Florida the same day and used his $6 million home as bond collateral, according to Mike Valente of CBS Central Florida.

League officials also continue to monitor Damon Jones’ involvement closely. As Mannix reports, Jones was allegedly tied to both cases — including tipping a bettor about LeBron James’ injury status in 2023.

ESPN’s Dave McMenamin confirmed James had no knowledge of the betting activity.

Meanwhile, the Magic told The Orlando Sentinel’s Jason Beede that they have “no indication” any players were involved, and The Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson reports the Heat were unaware of Rozier’s situation when they acquired him from Charlotte.