Damon Jones Admits Guilt in NBA Betting Scandal of 2026

Former NBA player Damon Jones becomes the first to plead guilty in a major betting case, admitting to conspiracy and violating NBA code.

First to Plead Guilty in NBA Betting Case NEW YORK - Damon Jones, a former NBA player and assistant coach, has become the first person to plead guilty in a gambling sweep that led to the arrests of over 30 people, including notorious mobsters and other basketball figures. Jones pleaded guilty to a single count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud during the first of back-to-back plea-change hearings on Tuesday in Brooklyn federal court. According to sentencing guidelines, he faces a punishment of 21-27 months in prison. ## Jones Acknowledges Conspiracy to Defraud Sports Betting Companies Reading a prepared statement to the court, Damon Jones acknowledged that he conspired with others to defraud sports betting companies by using 'insider information that I obtained as a result of my relationships as a former player.' He admitted to using this information to gain an unfair advantage in sports betting. Jones also acknowledged that his actions violated the NBA's code of conduct and the terms of service on sports betting websites. ## Jones' Previous Charges and Sentencing Guidelines The 49-year-old is charged in separate cases with profiting from rigged poker games and providing sports bettors with nonpublic information about injuries to stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis, according to court filings. Jones previously pleaded not guilty in both cases to charges of wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy. Both charges carry a maximum punishment of 20 years in prison. ## Jones' Apology and Acknowledgement of Guilt In a prepared statement, Damon Jones apologized to the court, his family, his peers, and the National Basketball Association for his actions. He said, 'I would like to sincerely apologize to the court, my family, my peers and also the National Basketball Association.' Jones took full responsibility for his actions and acknowledged the severity of his mistakes.