Former NBA star and current Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups has entered a not-guilty plea to federal money laundering conspiracy and wire fraud conspiracy charges connected to what prosecutors describe as a series of fixed high-stakes poker games.
Billups’ attorney filed the plea in November without public comment. Each count carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A trial could begin as soon as September.
Prosecutors Outline Alleged Scheme
According to the indictment, investigators are reviewing 25 poker games held between 2019 and 2023. Billups is cited in two Las Vegas sessions where authorities claim participants used covert signals to manipulate outcomes. Prosecutors allege the 47-year-old coach served as a recognizable “face card” to attract wealthy players and was aware of the signaling system. Billups has denied any wrongdoing.
The government says its evidence includes roughly one terabyte of financial documents, surveillance footage, and other electronic data. The case encompasses 30 additional defendants, several of whom have prior criminal records.
Bail and Current Status
Billups posted a $5 million bond, secured by property he owns in Colorado. He has been on indefinite leave from his coaching duties since the charges were filed and is subject to travel restrictions while the case proceeds.
For now, the five-time All-Star remains in Colorado with family as he awaits the next court date, leaving his professional future unresolved.
Source: Hoops Wire
