Prominent NBA Figures Charged in Rigged Poker Scheme Involving Mob Ties

NEW YORK, NY — Federal authorities charged several prominent NBA figures on Thursday in connection with an elaborate illegal poker rigging scheme that allegedly defrauded unwitting players out of millions of dollars.

The investigation began in April 2019, when Robert “Black Rob” Stroud and co-conspirators designed a method to rig Texas Hold ’em games. The group targeted wealthy players, known as “fish” or “whales,” by creating the illusion that they were engaged in fair competition, while secretly manipulating the outcome of the games.

High-profile former athletes, referred to as “face cards,” lured the victims into the games. Among those named in the charges are Basketball Hall of Famer Chauncey Billups and former NBA player Damon Jones. These celebrities played a significant role in drawing interest to the illegal games.

According to court documents, the scheme utilized advanced technology, including altered shuffling machines and hidden cameras, to track card distribution and provide insider information to the players part of the scheme. This information was communicated to a “quarterback” at the table, who would signal to other conspirators regarding the best hands to play.

During a September 2024 game in Miami, it was recorded that defendant John Mazzola acted as the quarterback. When he had the strongest hand, he would tap his wrist, while other signals indicated different scenarios such as folding.

The presence of organized crime was integral to the operation. Investigators linked the scheme to the Bonanno, Gambino, Luchesse, and Genovese crime families, which allegedly provided protection and support for the illegal games.

Authorities stated that the victims collectively lost at least $7.15 million, with one victim alone losing $1.8 million over multiple games. The crimes included threats and actions typical of organized crime, highlighting the severity of the operation.

FBI officials noted that the fraudulent scheme was monumental, describing the techniques used as mind-boggling and sophisticated. Ricky Patel, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations New York, stated that the elaborate setup would seem more fitting for a Hollywood film than real life.

Following his arrest, Billups was released on bond and is scheduled to appear in court again on November 24. His legal counsel intends to contest the charges, describing him as a man of integrity whose actions did not align with the accusations against him.

As the investigation continues, the NBA has announced that both Billups and fellow player Terry Rozier have been placed on immediate leave. The league is fully cooperating with the ongoing inquiry.