NBA requests cell phones amid sports betting probe…
The NBA is looking for cell phones, among other property, from a number of groups — including the Lakers — as the league continues its investigation into unlawful sports playing, The Athletic reported Saturday.
The transfer from the league comes following strain from Congress after the Department of Justice introduced fees in late October against Heat guard Terry Rozier, Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups and former participant and coach Damon Jones as a part of two sprawling instances — one that includes allegations of unlawful sports betting and another coping with allegedly rigged poker games that had mafia ties.
In response to Congress, the NBA insisted that it’s taking the fees critically.
The league has contacted groups for cell cellphone entry via the assist of outdoor legislation agency Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz.
Investigators from the companies are anticipated to focus on Lakers gamers, as Jones, a former teammate and shut confidant with LeBron James, had particular entry to the team, per The Athletic.
Los Angeles Lakers ahead LeBron James #23, arguing with the ref in the 2nd half against the Knicks on February 3, 2024. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
According to The Athletic, Lakers assistant coach Mike Mancias and govt administrator Randy Mims — each of whom have shut ties to James — have already cooperated and handed over their cell phones to the agency.
Former NBA participant Damon Jones arrives at the Brooklyn Federal Courthouse following his arraignment listening to on unlawful playing schemes, in Brooklyn, New York City, November 6, 2025. REUTERS
“The NBA engaged an independent law firm to investigate the allegations in the indictment once it was made public,” an NBA spokesman said to The Athletic in a press release. “As is standard in these kinds of investigations, a number of different individuals and organizations were asked to preserve documents and records. Everyone has been fully cooperative.”
Follow The Post’s latest on the playing scandal rocking the NBA:
Mims, 50, has remained shut with the 21-time All-Star since his high faculty days, and Mancias, 48, has been James’ coach for over 20 years.
James, Mims and Mancias haven’t been named in the two federal indictments, nor have they been accused of any crimes.
Jones, who’s accused of promoting injury data to gamblers on two Lakers gamers a minimum of two different occasions, pleaded not responsible during an look at Brooklyn Federal Court earlier this month.
He was named in each federal indictments.
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