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Damon Jones, once a sharp-shooting guard and later an assistant coach with the Cleveland Cavaliers, pleaded not guilty in a Brooklyn federal court to charges linking him to both insider sports betting and rigged high-stakes poker games.
The 49-year-old was released on a $200,000 bond, backed by family in Texas, as he awaits trial. The charges stem from a sweeping federal investigation that also named NBA figures like Portland coach Chauncey Billups and Miami’s Terry Rozier.
Feds Claim Insider Intel Was Sold to Bettor
Prosecutors allege Jones shared injury updates on NBA stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis with a bettor named Marves Fairley. These tips, passed along before going public, allegedly gave Fairley an edge on wagers.
One example cited in court: In February 2023, Jones reportedly told a friend that LeBron James would sit out a game against Milwaukee. The friend was encouraged to bet against the Lakers. A similar tip about Anthony Davis in January 2024 turned out to be inaccurate — Davis played heavy minutes and led his team to victory.
Jones allegedly received $2,500 for one of the tips. When the outcome didn’t go Fairley’s way, he reportedly demanded the money back. Fairley has also pleaded not guilty.
Poker Games Tied to NYC Crime Families
The second part of the case accuses Jones of helping run rigged poker games, allegedly designed to fleece wealthy players. Prosecutors claim hidden cameras and tampered shuffling machines were used to manipulate outcomes, while Jones acted as a familiar face to lure in high rollers.
These games were reportedly connected to members of the Gambino, Genovese, and Bonanno crime families. The mob allegedly took cuts of the winnings and used threats to settle debts when necessary.
Next Steps in the Case
Jones, who earned over $20 million during his 11-year NBA career, has yet to reach a plea deal, though talks are ongoing. He returns to court on November 24 for a preliminary hearing.
His attorney, Kenneth Montgomery, said discussions with prosecutors are continuing, suggesting a possible deal could still be on the table.
