As the NBA grapples with the fallout from a federal gambling investigation that has already led to the arrests of Chauncey Billups and Terry Rozier, a new figure has emerged in the narrative: Tyronn Lue. The Los Angeles Clippers head coach is now being described as a “recurring character” in the poker-related saga that has shaken the league’s foundation.
According to Pablo Torre, Lue has been present at several high-stakes poker events over the years, some of which are now under federal scrutiny.
Ty Lue has been a ‘recurring character’ in the poker stories involving Damon Jones and Chauncey Billups, per @PabloTorre
(🎥 @LeBatardShow )
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) October 30, 2025
During the 2024 World Series of Poker, Lue was reportedly seen at the event alongside former NBA player Damon Jones, who also was arrested for his alleged participation with Billups in the defraud poker games and two for providing bettors advanced, private information about LeBron James and other Lakers’ players’ availability for games.
Perhaps most notably, Lue was present at a poker game in Las Vegas that has since been tied to “Operation Royal Flush,” a Department of Justice probe into Mafia-backed gambling rings. Billups, who was arrested last week, is alleged to have helped recruit players to the game.
While Lue’s presence at these events has been confirmed by multiple sources, there is no indication that he participated in illegal activity or was aware of any rigging. The FBI has not named him in any indictments, and the NBA has yet to issue a formal statement regarding his involvement.
The repeated mentions of Lue in connection with Damon Jones and Chauncey Billups have led some analysts to question whether his role is purely social or something deeper. The trio’s long-standing friendship dates back to their playing days, and their shared appearances at poker venues may reflect friendship more than conspiracy.
Still, the optics are troubling. With the NBA already under pressure to tighten its gambling policies, the presence of another current head coach in proximity to a federal investigation adds another layer of complexity.
