Chad Ochocinco Delivered a Stark Warning About Athletes and Organized Crime Involvement
Former NFL receiver Chad Ochocinco recently spoke out about the serious consequences athletes may face when they become entangled with organized crime, particularly in relation to sports betting. He shared his perspective on Thursday’s episode of the podcast *Nightcap*, reacting to the ongoing gambling investigation that has led to the arrests of multiple NBA figures, including Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups.
“What I was talking about, about them being dealing with the mafia… these people have no regard for life,” Ochocinco said. “Once you’re in business with them, that means you got the old ways. I need all the answers—who’s playing, who’s coming out, what the scoreline’s gonna be. And what happens when you get it wrong?”
He continued, “What happens when you mess up? What happens when you place a bet, you give him certain information, and it doesn’t come out the way it should, and they lose money? Once you’re in, once you end with them like that, what if you say, ‘You know what? I don’t want to do this anymore.’”
### NBA Gambling Investigation Deepens
Federal prosecutors announced on Thursday that Chauncey Billups was implicated in a network of rigged poker games tied to La Cosa Nostra, a notorious organized crime group. According to U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella, the organization controlled high-stakes poker games across New York City and profited from manipulated outcomes.
In response to these revelations, the NBA has placed Billups and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier on indefinite leave. Rozier reportedly provided bettors with information about his in-game absences for profit, based on an FBI investigation. Additionally, former NBA player Damon Jones was taken into custody. The indictment claims that Jones relayed details about player availability during the 2022-23 Lakers season, including a February 2023 game when LeBron James sat out.
### NFL’s Strict Integrity Standards on Gambling
Chad Ochocinco’s warning echoes the NFL’s stringent stance on gambling violations. Every NFL player contract includes an “integrity of the game” clause that explicitly prohibits betting on league events or engaging in any form of gambling related to football.
Under the collective bargaining agreement, the NFL commissioner has the authority to fine, suspend, or even terminate any player involved in betting-related misconduct. Players are banned from wagering on NFL games, the draft, or league events such as the Pro Bowl. They are also prohibited from placing bets through intermediaries.
Additionally, NFL policy forbids gambling at team facilities, stadiums, or hotels while traveling. Players cannot visit sportsbooks or participate in daily fantasy contests during the season. Coaches and team employees face even tighter restrictions—they are forbidden from gambling on any sport whatsoever.
### Conclusion
The recent NBA gambling scandal and Chad Ochocinco’s cautionary comments highlight the risks and severe consequences athletes face when involved with organized crime and illegal gambling. Sports leagues like the NFL remain vigilant with strict policies to protect the integrity of the game and prevent similar incidents from occurring.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/news-what-happens-mess-up-chad-ochocinco-opens-life-threatening-risks-mafia-s-role-chauncey-billups-gambling-case
