New developments emerge in Malik Beasley gambling case

Former NBA sharpshooter Malik Beasley is reportedly close to accepting a plea deal regarding federal charges that he manipulated his play to impact gambling outcomes.

Beasley had initially pled not guilty to federal charges, but indicated in paperwork filed Friday that he intends to change his plea, according to Mike Vorkunov of The Athletic. Beasley’s lawyer confirmed that the former NBA player is in talks with federal prosecutors about a plea deal.

Federal prosecutors have alleged that Beasley manipulated his performance multiple times during the 2023-24 season with the Milwaukee Bucks. Beasley sought to manipulate prop bets, and profited off those successes. Previously, Beasley had pled not guilty and denied any wrongdoing.

Numerous reports suggested that Beasley was dealing with significant financial debts, which may have been part of why he was allegedly involved in such schemes.

Beasley has not played in the NBA since 2024-25 with the Detroit Pistons, though he did play in Puerto Rico briefly last season. He has received virtually no interest from NBA teams since federal charges were brought against him.