Former NBA player and assistant coach Damon Jones has pleaded guilty in a sweeping federal gambling investigation, becoming the first defendant to admit wrongdoing in a case that has shaken the basketball world.
Jones, 49, entered his guilty plea in federal court in Brooklyn, admitting to his role in two separate schemes tied to illegal gambling operations. Prosecutors say the case is part of a broader investigation that resulted in more than 30 arrests, including individuals with alleged ties to organized crime and professional basketball.
According to federal authorities, Jones pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud in connection with both an illegal sports betting scheme and a rigged poker operation. In the sports betting case, prosecutors said Jones used insider knowledge from his NBA connections to provide nonpublic information—such as player injury updates—to bettors seeking an edge.
In addition, Jones admitted to participating in high-stakes poker games that were secretly manipulated using technology and coordinated cheating methods. Authorities allege he acted as a recognizable “face” to attract wealthy participants, helping the operation generate millions in illicit profits.
During his court appearance, Jones issued a public apology, acknowledging his actions and expressing remorse to the court, his family, and the NBA. His plea agreement includes forfeiture of tens of thousands of dollars tied to the schemes and could potentially reduce his sentence.
Jones now faces significant prison time. Sentencing guidelines suggest he could receive between roughly two and more than six years behind bars depending on how the court weighs the two cases, with sentencing currently scheduled for early 2027.
The case is part of a larger federal crackdown on illegal gambling tied to professional basketball, raising renewed concerns about the integrity of sports betting and the access insiders have to sensitive information. As the investigation continues, additional defendants—including other figures connected to the NBA—are expected to face trial or reach plea agreements.
Jones’ guilty plea marks a major development in the ongoing probe, signaling potential momentum for prosecutors as they pursue one of the most significant gambling scandals involving professional basketball in recent years.
