The NBA confirmed it is wrapping up its own investigation into Malik Beasley amid allegations of improper wagering on league games and prop bets, ESPN’s David Purdum reported on Wednesday.
Attorney Steve Haney told ESPN that the 28-year-old guard is fully cooperating with league investigators. The probe runs parallel to a federal inquiry that surfaced in June, just before Beasley hit free agency, when the U.S. District Attorney’s office began examining unusual betting patterns tied to Beasley-related wagers during the 2023/24 season.
In August, ESPN’s Shams Charania indicated Beasley was no longer a target of the federal case, yet subsequent reports clarified he remains a subject, leaving his status unresolved. Under league rules, the NBA may issue its own penalties—such as fines or suspensions—unless a player is formally found not guilty in court, ESPN’s Bobby Marks noted on social media.
Investigators have zeroed in on a spike in wagers on Beasley’s statistics in January 2024, specifically a Jan. 31 matchup in which heavy action poured in on his under 2.5 rebounds prop. Beasley grabbed six boards that night, causing the flagged bets to lose.
A source familiar with the situation told Purdum the league’s review is in its final stages. Separately, Beasley posted on Instagram that “my decision is near,” a message believed to reference his free-agency plans.
Before the federal probe became public, Beasley and the Detroit Pistons were reportedly close to a three-year, $42 million agreement. Detroit later withdrew the offer and now lacks the cap space or exceptions to revisit that figure, though it could still start an offer at $7.2 million using his Non-Bird rights.
The Cleveland Cavaliers, New York Knicks, and Minnesota Timberwolves have also expressed interest in the veteran sharpshooter. Beasley is coming off a standout campaign with Detroit, where he averaged 16.3 points, finished second in the league with 319 made three-pointers, and was runner-up for Sixth Man of the Year.
Source: Hoops Rumors
