NBA Player Damon Jones Set to Plead Guilty in Gambling Case

**TL;DR** Former NBA player Damon Jones is expected to plead guilty in a gambling case that produced over 30 arrests, making him the first basketball figure to do so. He allegedly urged a large bet on the Milwaukee Bucks after learning LeBron James would be injured.

## Context Federal prosecutors say Jones was part of a scheme that funneled non‑public injury information to bettors and ran rigged poker games linked to New York crime families. The investigation led to the arrest of more than 30 people, including reputed mobsters, former players and coaches. A change‑of‑plea hearing for Jones is set for April 28 in Brooklyn federal court, after being moved from May 6 at the parties’ request.

## Key Facts Jones is slated to be the first person to plead guilty in the case. Prosecutors allege he texted a co‑conspirator: "Get a big bet on Milwaukee tonight before the information is out," after learning LeBron James would miss a February 2023 game against the Bucks. During his NBA career from 1999 to 2009, Jones earned more than $20 million playing for ten teams.

## What It Means A guilty plea would mark a rare criminal conviction tied to an NBA‑related gambling operation and could prompt the league to review its internal controls on information sharing. It also adds pressure on other individuals charged in the same sweep who have yet to enter pleas. Observers will watch the April 28 hearing for any indications of a broader settlement or additional charges.