Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups is currently navigating serious legal troubles as he faces federal charges related to an alleged rigged underground poker game. With the stakes high, Billups has secured the services of notable trial attorney Marc Mukasey to represent him in federal court, according to sources familiar with the situation.
Mukasey, who is the founding partner of Mukasey Young LLC, brings a wealth of experience, particularly in high-profile cases. His notable past clients include former President Donald Trump and ex-New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani. Mukasey’s reputation was bolstered when he successfully defended Navy SEAL Edward Gallagher against murder charges in 2019, leading to an acquittal. His experience extends to the sports realm as well, recently representing Joe Sanberg in connection with an NBA investigation involving the Los Angeles Clippers and star player Kawhi Leonard.
Billups was indicted last week on charges of money laundering and wire fraud conspiracy following a lengthy investigation led by federal authorities. They allege that he leveraged his status as a former NBA star to draw participants into a poker game he was allegedly involved in, where unsuspecting gamblers were defrauded. The investigation has seen 34 arrests across 11 states, with connections to organized crime.
Prosecutors have indicated that Billups is linked to one case of rigged poker games that included several former athletes, who are described as “face cards.” Additionally, Billups is said to have a separate connection to a sports betting scheme involving insider information that impacted game betting decisions.
While details about his alleged involvement continue to emerge, it has been pointed out that Billups and Eric “Spook” Earnest, another defendant linked to the case, have familial ties on social media. Both families follow each other, and past connections have raised eyebrows, particularly Billups’ association with individuals reportedly linked to organized crime.
Currently on unpaid leave from the NBA, Billups is expected to appear before a federal courthouse in Brooklyn at 10 a.m. on November 24, with Mukasey likely at his side.
This troubling situation adds a layer of complexity to Billups’ role as a coach. However, with the legal representation of a seasoned attorney like Mukasey, there remains hope that he can navigate these challenges effectively and emerge from this legal battle with some clarity.