Copyright Heavy.
Former NBA player and assistant coach Damon Jones pleaded not guilty Thursday to federal charges that accuse him of leaking private injury details about LeBron James and Anthony Davis to gamblers while profiting from rigged poker games. The 49-year-old, who once played alongside James in Cleveland, appeared in Brooklyn federal court where his attorney entered not guilty pleas in two separate cases linked to a recent national gambling investigation, per ABC News. Jones’ mother and stepfather agreed to use their Texas home as collateral for a $200,000 bond, allowing him to remain free before trial. His lawyer, Kenneth Montgomery, told the court that “plea negotiations may be underway,” with a follow-up hearing set for Nov. 24. What made the case even more puzzling was Jones’ unusual position with the Los Angeles Lakers. He wasn’t on the payroll, but he moved around like he was. Jones was frequently spotted in team gear, on the bus, and in the locker room, even rebounding for James before games, The Athletic reports. “He was kinda just around,” said one team source who spoke on condition of anonymity. LeBron James’ Inner Circle Caught Off Guard Jones’ proximity to the Lakers and James reportedly gave him access few outsiders ever get. That closeness, prosecutors allege, became the foundation for a scheme to tip gamblers on player availability. Sources told The Athletic that James was unaware Jones was sharing information about him or his teammates, while another source called it “unfortunate” that someone so trusted would allegedly profit from that access. During the 2022–23 season, Jones was often seen courtside before games and on team trips, though he had no formal duties under head coach Darvin Ham. His relationship with James, built years earlier when the two were teammates in Cleveland, seemingly kept doors open that might otherwise have been closed. Federal prosecutors allege Jones texted an associate before a February 2023 matchup between the Lakers and Bucks: “Get a big bet on Milwaukee tonight before the information is out.” James was later ruled out of that game with a lower-body injury, which hadn’t yet been disclosed publicly. The Lakers went on to lose 115-106. Is Jones In the Clear? Another incident in January 2024, according to prosecutors, involved Jones selling a $2,500 tip to sports bettor Marves Fairley, who wagered $100,000 on the Thunder after being told Anthony Davis would play limited minutes. The information proved false, as Davis dominated with 27 points and 15 rebounds in a Lakers win. Fairley allegedly demanded his money back. Fairley, who was also arraigned Thursday, pleaded not guilty to wire fraud and money laundering conspiracy. Both men face similar charges tied to the same gambling ring that has also implicated NBA coach Chauncey Billups and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier. Jones, a Galveston native and University of Houston alum, earned more than $20 million during an 11-year NBA career that spanned 10 teams. Now, the former sharpshooter’s freedom could hinge on whether jurors believe he sold secrets from inside LeBron James’ inner circle. Only time will tell for the former guard. Let’s hope he got the good lawyers.
