Former Cleveland Cavaliers guard Damon Jones is facing serious legal consequences after becoming the first person to plead guilty in two interconnected gambling scandals—one involving the NBA and another tied to alleged Mafia-run poker schemes.
The 49-year-old appeared in a Brooklyn federal court on Tuesday to enter his plea before Magistrate Judge Joseph Marutollo. He admitted to two counts of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, marking a stunning fall for the former NBA sharpshooter who once played alongside LeBron James in Cleveland.
The NBA Betting Case
In the first case, Jones confessed to using his connections within the league to obtain non-public information about NBA games, which was then used to place bets. He admitted to "defrauding betting platforms" by leveraging "inside information I obtained as a result of my relationships" within the league. Prosecutors allege that in January 2024, Jones passed along information that a top Lakers player—identified in reports as LeBron James—was injured. James has not been accused of any wrongdoing, and Jones was not officially with the Lakers at the time, though he had been serving as an informal assistant coach.
The Mafia Poker Connection
The second case, known as "Operation Royal Flush," involves fixed poker games allegedly controlled by multiple Mafia families. Jones admitted to serving as a "face card"—a high-profile figure used to attract other players to the games. Several individuals have been charged in both cases, highlighting the troubling overlap between professional sports and organized crime.
Sentencing and Apology
Jones, represented by attorney Kenneth Montgomery, offered a heartfelt apology in court: "I would like to sincerely apologize to the court, my peers, my family, and also the National Basketball Association."
He has agreed to a recommended sentence of 21–27 months in prison, though the final decision will come at his sentencing in January. He also agreed not to appeal if his sentence is 30 months or less, though the maximum on the charge is 20 years. Additionally, Jones must pay $35,000 in forfeiture.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with gambling in professional sports—and the severe penalties that can follow when lines are crossed. For fans and athletes alike, it underscores the importance of maintaining integrity both on and off the court.