Behind the Scenes: Orlando Magic Player Exposed Tanking Plans to Gamblers

Recent weeks have witnessed a shocking development in the NBA: the FBI's investigation into gambling has led to the arrest of player Terry Rozier and coach Chauncey Billups. This incident has resurfaced concerns about gambling within the league, reminiscent of the Tim Donaghy scandal from years past. Rozier and Billups are accused of leveraging their expertise to exploit sports betting. An unsettling trend seems to be emerging, with additional players implicated in similar activities. A recent feature in The Athletic highlights an unnamed player from the Orlando Magic who became ensnared in a gambling scheme in 2023. This individual allegedly divulged strategic insights about the team's plans to bet against their own games while serving as a starter. The article elaborates that federal charges reference various teams, including the Magic, regarding illegal betting activities. Interestingly, the Magic’s official statement indicates that the implicated player is no longer part of the organization, and the FBI has not contacted the team.