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Former NBA standout Gilbert Arenas has been hit with federal charges tied to an illegal high-stakes poker operation allegedly run out of a rented mansion in Encino, California. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California announced the indictment Wednesday, naming Arenas and five other individuals as defendants.
Arenas, 43, is facing three federal charges: conspiracy to operate an illegal gambling business, operating an illegal gambling business, and making false statements to investigators. If convicted, he could serve up to five years in federal prison per count.
He is set to appear for arraignment Wednesday afternoon in U.S. District Court in downtown Los Angeles.
Feds: Encino Poker Games Ran From 2021 to 2022
The indictment alleges that from September 2021 to July 2022, Arenas and his co-defendants orchestrated high-stakes “Pot Limit Omaha” poker nights at the Encino estate. Arenas reportedly rented the property, allowing the group to rake in profits by taking a cut from each pot—either a flat fee or a percentage.
Alongside Arenas, the indictment names Yevgeni “Giora” Gershman, Allan “Elica” Austria, Evgenni “Eugne” Tourevski, Yarin “YC” Cohen, and Ievgen Krachun. All six men are California residents, with Gershman, 49, identified by authorities as a suspected high-level organized crime figure from Israel.
Poker, Perks, and Payoffs
The indictment details a lavish setup, complete with hired chefs, valets, and armed guards. Gershman is accused of bringing in women to serve drinks, provide massages, and offer companionship to players. These women were paid through tips but had to surrender a portion of their earnings to the game organizers.
Arenas’ NBA Legacy and Prior Scandals
Arenas played 11 seasons in the NBA, averaging 20.7 points, 5.3 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. He was a three-time All-Star and twice named to an All-NBA team during his time with the Golden State Warriors, Washington Wizards, Orlando Magic, and Memphis Grizzlies.
His basketball career was derailed in 2009 when he was suspended for bringing guns into the Wizards’ locker room following a card game dispute with teammate Javaris Crittenton.
Drafted 31st overall by Golden State in 2001, Arenas had once been seen as one of the league’s rising stars. His current legal troubles mark another dramatic turn for the former NBA guard.
