BAD BEAT — Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups, Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier and former NBA guard and coach Damon Jones were arrested by the FBI last week in connection with two investigations into alleged illegal sports betting and rigged poker games with alleged ties to the mob. The arrests followed a sweeping probe that implicated several high-profile individuals in the NBA, raising questions about the extent of organized crime’s influence in professional sports.
HIGH-TECH OPERATION — The FBI detailed the sophisticated methods used in the rigged poker games, which reportedly involved illegal card-shuffling machines, X-ray technology, and offsite communications to deceive victims. The investigation has revealed how criminal networks could operate under the radar in a highly regulated sports environment, undermining the trust of fans and players alike.
‘INTEGRITY ISSUES’ — The NBA has taken steps to address the allegations, with a memo released by the league outlining its plans to enhance measures to protect the integrity of the game. The incident has prompted a broader conversation about the need for stricter oversight and accountability within the league, especially in light of the significant number of arrests linked to illegal betting practices.
EVEN SCORE — After an extra-inning marathon that nearly broke MLB’s record for the longest World Series game, the Toronto Blue Jays rebounded Tuesday night to beat the defending champs, the Los Angeles Dodgers, 6-2. The series is now tied at two games each, providing both teams with a chance to take control of the series in the upcoming games.
INSTANT CLASSIC — The Game 3 marathon between the Dodgers and Blue Jays, which lasted six hours and 39 minutes, is now tied with the previous record for the longest World Series game. The unprecedented length of the contest not only showcased the endurance of the players but also highlighted the unpredictable nature of high-stakes baseball competition.
POLICY PRESSURE — The White House provided a response to the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee’s consideration of using genetic sex testing as part of the debate over transgender athletes in women’s sports. This development signals the growing importance of addressing gender-related issues in sports and the potential for policy changes ahead of the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.
TEEING OFF — Kai Trump, the granddaughter of former President Donald Trump, is set to make her debut on the LPGA Tour next month after receiving a sponsor invitation to participate in The Annika at Pelican Golf Club. This represents a significant step for the young golfer, marking her entry into professional women’s golf.
FROM OUTKICK — Former NCAA swimmer and OutKick host Riley Gaines joined