Former NBA player and coach Damon Jones is expected to plead guilty in two separate cases alleging his involvement in illegal gambling rings, according to a court order entered Thursday.
Background
Jones initially pleaded not guilty on Nov. 6, 2025, to charges stemming from two federal indictments. The cases were referred from the presiding judge in Brooklyn federal court to Magistrate Judge Joseph A. Marutollo. Jones is scheduled to appear before the magistrate on April 28, 2026, at 11 a.m. ET.
The two federal indictments charged a total of 34 people, including dozens of alleged mafia figures and professional athletes. Jones was among only three individuals charged in both indictments, placing him at the center of what prosecutors described as an elaborate criminal enterprise spanning professional sports and organized crime.
The first indictment related to sports betting, with Jones accused of sharing or attempting to share inside information with bettors. The alleged scheme involved a text message sent on Feb. 9, 2023, in which Jones told a co-conspirator to 'get a big bet on Milwaukee tonight before the information is out! [Player 3] is out tonight.'
The 'prominent NBA player' referenced in the indictment appears to be LeBron James, a former teammate and longtime friend of Jones. James missed the Los Angeles Lakers' game that night against the Milwaukee Bucks due to ankle soreness. James has not been accused of any wrongdoing.
The Investigation
The second indictment alleged Jones participated in an elaborate poker cheating scheme that lured wealthy victims to play in rigged games against athletes. The scheme reportedly used so-called 'face cards' — famous or notable individuals used to entice people to participate in the games.
The indictment named dozens of defendants, including NBA Hall of Famer Chauncey Billups. Several alleged members of the mafia were accused of participating in the rigged poker schemes, according to court documents.
The cases were investigated by federal authorities who uncovered what they described as a sprawling network connecting professional athletes, alleged mob figures, and gambling operations.
Key Takeaways
- Damon Jones, former NBA player and coach, expected to plead guilty in two federal cases
- Cases involve illegal sports betting and an alleged poker cheating scheme
- 34 people charged across two indictments; Jones charged in both
- Sports betting case involved alleged tip about LeBron James, who is not accused of wrongdoing
- Jones referred to magistrate judge for plea hearing scheduled April 28, 2026 at 11 a.m. ET
- Cases connect alleged mafia figures with professional athletes including NBA Hall of Famer Chauncey Billups
What's Next
Jones is scheduled to appear before Magistrate Judge Joseph A. Marutollo on April 28, 2026, at 11 a.m. ET in Brooklyn federal court for the plea hearing. CBS News has reached out to Jones' attorney for comment regarding the expected guilty plea.