The NBA’s investigation into illegal sports gambling has taken a serious turn with new allegations involving an Orlando Magic player. According to a report by Sam Amick of The Athletic, a “regularly starting player” for the Magic allegedly informed a gambler of the team’s intention to tank a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers in April 2023.
The disclosure reportedly occurred ahead of the matchup and involved sensitive strategic information, including plans to sit starters or intentionally underperform.
This revelation adds to the growing scope of the NBA’s probe, which has already implicated several individuals across the league. The investigation is being conducted with the assistance of the law firm Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz and follows a series of federal arrests tied to illegal betting activities. Among those previously named are former NBA player and coach Damon Jones, Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups, and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier.
The Orlando Magic have not publicly identified the player involved, nor have they issued a formal statement regarding the allegation. However, sources close to the league indicate that the team is cooperating with investigators and has submitted relevant documents and communications for review. The NBA has not announced any disciplinary action at this time, and the player’s identity remains confidential pending further inquiry.
The April 2023 game in question occurred late in the regular season, a period often scrutinized for potential tanking as teams jockey for draft lottery positioning. The Magic lost that game to the Cavaliers, and while the result itself did not raise immediate red flags, the alleged tip-off has prompted renewed concern over the integrity of competition.
Commissioner Adam Silver has previously emphasized the league’s commitment to protecting the fairness of its games, especially as legalized sports betting becomes more integrated into the NBA’s business model.
As the probe continues, more teams and individuals may be drawn into the inquiry. The league has not provided a timeline for its conclusion but has reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on gambling-related misconduct. The outcome of this investigation could have far-reaching implications for how the NBA monitors and enforces its policies in the era of widespread sports betting.
