Milwaukee Bucks: former guard called out by Shaq for alleged involvement in NBA gambling controversy

Jones, who played for the Bucks during the 2003-04 and 2008-09 seasons, was arrested for his alleged involvement in the scandal, with an incident involving Milwaukee being described as one of the things that he did to illegally influence betting markets:

“In the indictment, Jones is identified as an unofficial assistant coach for the Lakers during the 2022–23 season. Also named is ‘Player 3,’ a teammate of Jones (which James was) who would later coach him (ditto). On Jan. 9, 2023, Jones claimed in text messages to associates that Player 3 would sit out the game against Milwaukee. ‘Get a big bet on Milwaukee tonight before the information is out,’ Jones texted. James did not play that night. The Bucks won the game.”

Chauncy Billups, the head coach of the Trailblazers, was arrested for his involvement in an illegal poker game ring that is supposedly run by the mafia. He is also accused of informing others that his team was tanking in hopes of gaining a higher pick in the NBA Draft.

Shaq Calls out former Milwaukee Bucks guard Damon Jones

As one would expect, there is a great deal of criticism being thrown at the NBA and the individuals who have been arrested. Among those who have harsh words for Jones, Billups, and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier is NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, who said: “I’m ashamed that those guys would put their families and their careers in jeopardy… if you’re making $9 million… how much more do you need?”

The unfortunate part of the whole scandal is that it likely is not over. Another former Bucks guard, Malik Beasley, was previously linked to illegal gambling, but was cleared in an NBA investigation.

Whether or not he remains cleared as the FBI continues to investigate remains to be seen.

That being said, there may be more and more names, high-profile ones, that are soon linked to the case.