Overview
- Federal prosecutors charged Billups with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering tied to alleged mafia-linked, rigged poker games dating to at least 2019.
- The indictment describes cheating methods including rigged shuffling machines, X‑ray tables, and specialized eyewear, and says Billups acted as a celebrity draw for high-stakes games.
- Portland said it is cooperating with authorities, placed Billups on leave, and canceled Thursday’s practice while confirming Splitter will lead the team on an interim basis.
- Assistant Nate Bjorkgren was considered for the interim job but remains in his current role, according to multiple reports.
- Splitter, a former Spurs champion and ex-head coach of Paris Basketball, is set to coach Friday against the Warriors, and the NBA is also reviewing charges that led to Miami’s Terry Rozier being placed on leave.