Chauncey Billups, NBA Hall of Famer and former Trail Blazers coach, pleaded not guilty to federal charges in a gambling scandal involving rigged poker games with alleged mob connections. Facing money laundering conspiracy and wire fraud conspiracy charges that carry up to 20 years in prison, Billups sat front and center during his arraignment as prosecutors allege he used his fame to lure wealthy victims to the games.

Evidence presented includes text messages suggesting Billups knew cheating signals and intentionally lost hands to avoid suspicion, along with financial records showing a $50,000 wire to a woman who then transferred money directly to Billups. The case involves 31 defendants with connections to organized crime, including Robert Stroud, who has ties to the Gambino crime family and recruited athletes for the games.

The scandal has severely damaged Billups' legacy, with former teammate Damon Jones also indicted in the probe. The judge set a tentative trial date for September as the case continues to unfold. Billups posted $5 million bail and remains free while the investigation processes terabytes of bank records, surveillance photos, and other electronic evidence.