Charles Barkley Critiques NBA Gambling Scandal
During a recent episode of Inside the NBA, Charles Barkley did not hold back while addressing the gambling scandal that has sent shockwaves through the league. “This ain’t got nothing to do with addiction,” he stated emphatically, criticizing those involved in the controversy.
The scandal erupted following the arrest of Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups, who was implicated in an illegal poker operation linked to organized crime. This occurred mere hours after his team faced a defeat against the Minnesota Timberwolves. In a separate investigation, Miami Heat player Terry Rozier and former Cavaliers assistant coach Damon Jones were also taken into custody in Miami.
Reports indicate that Jones, 49, allegedly shared confidential injury details about a “prominent” NBA player to aid illegal betting activities. Sources suggest that this player is none other than LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers.
Rozier, 31, reportedly informed members of a betting ring that he would exit a game early, allowing them to place wagers on his performance with prior knowledge of his reduced statistics, as detailed by The Athletic.
Both Rozier and Billups have denied any wrongdoing through their legal representatives. Barkley continued his critique, stating, “Under no circumstances can you fix basketball games.” He questioned the logic behind Rozier’s actions, emphasizing that with a salary of $26 million, there’s little incentive to manipulate game outcomes.
His remarks followed cohost Kenny Smith’s discussion on gambling addiction. Smith pointed out that addiction can lead individuals to make irrational choices, regardless of their background or financial situation. “We have to realize gambling is an addiction,” he asserted.
In response to Barkley’s comments, Smith remarked, “You’re proving my point,” highlighting the illogical nature of risking so much for a relatively small gain. “If you’re making $26 million to win $50,000. That’s illogical,” he added.
The FBI’s investigation has led to the arrest of 34 individuals across 11 states, underscoring the widespread nature of the issue.
The NBA released a statement confirming their review of the federal indictments and announced that both Rozier and Billups would be placed on immediate leave from their respective teams. “We take these allegations with the utmost seriousness,” the statement read, emphasizing the league's commitment to maintaining the integrity of the game.
Barkley has been candid about his own gambling experiences in the past. In a 2007 interview, he disclosed having lost $10 million due to gambling, including a staggering $2.5 million in just six hours at a blackjack table. “It’s not a problem,” he stated then, distinguishing his habits from those of drug addicts or alcoholics. “I gamble for too much money... Am I going to continue to do it? Yes, I’m going to continue to do it.”
