Another NBA Legend Linked To Gambling Scandal
Another NBA Legend Linked To Gambling Scandal
Basketball Hall of Famer Kevin Garnett has become connected to a federal investigation involving illegal gambling operations that resulted in multiple arrests of current and former NBA players.
The former Boston Celtics champion has been linked in some capacity to the underground poker games that were operated by organized crime figures who have since been indicted by federal authorities.
🚨 UPDATE: A number of former pro athletes played at private poker games organized by those indicted by the DOJ in “Operation Royal Flush.”
One of them — according to multiple sources with direct knowledge of a game that took place in 2019 — was Kevin Garnett. @pablofindsout https://t.co/9UEijIez8R
— Pablo Torre 👀 (@PabloTorre) October 24, 2025
🚨➕ Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue was also in attendance at the allegedly rigged April 2019 poker game in Las Vegas, sources with direct knowledge tell @pablofindsout.
But sources say Lue did not play at the same table as his good friend, Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups.
— Pablo Torre 👀 (@PabloTorre) October 25, 2025
The games in question were part of a broader criminal enterprise that caught the attention of law enforcement agencies investigating illegal gambling rings. While Garnett has not been charged with any crimes related to these rigged poker games, his reported involvement highlights the extensive reach of these underground gambling operations within professional sports circles.
Kevin Garnett Isn’t Thought To Be Part Of The FBI’s Investigation
The former NBA champion has not faced any criminal charges in connection with the federal gambling probe. Garnett allegedly attended one poker game that became part of the broader investigation into illegal gambling operations.
Law enforcement sources indicate that four of the five major organized crime families participated in establishing fraudulent poker schemes. These operations reportedly defrauded participants of millions through rigged games and manipulation.
The investigation centers on:
- Illegal sports betting networks
- Mafia-backed poker games
- Money laundering operations
- Racketeering activities
Garnett has remained silent regarding his alleged participation. Federal authorities suggest his involvement was limited to playing in games rather than organizing criminal activities.
The investigation could reveal additional connections between professional athletes and organized crime figures. Most defendants in the case have not been publicly identified, though the scope appears extensive.
Other former players face more serious legal consequences, with some already appearing in court proceedings and posting bond for their release.
A longtime sports reporter, Carlos Garcia has written about some of the biggest and most notable athletic events of the last 5 years. He has been credentialed to cover MLS, NBA and MLB games all over the United States. His work has been published on Fox Sports, Bleacher Report, AOL and the Washington Post.
