Antonio Gates has been linked to a Miami poker sport allegedly rigged by a federal playing ring that has now expanded its attain from the NBA to the NFL.
Antonio Gates allegedly hosted a manipulated poker sport in Miami that has now pulled the NFL right into a widening federal investigation initially centered on the NBA.
The Corridor of Fame tight finish is the primary NFL determine named within the ongoing investigation into unlawful sports activities betting and poker video games tied to organized crime, in accordance with journalist Pablo Torre.
Sources instructed Torre that Gates hosted the Miami sport, which was allegedly orchestrated by Curtis Meeks — a person indicted by federal prosecutors final Thursday.
The probe, which has already led to 34 arrests, initially focused NBA personnel however now seems to be increasing throughout skilled sports activities.
Earlier this week, the FBI arrested Terry Rozier of the Miami Warmth, Chauncey Billups, head coach of the Portland Path Blazers, and former NBA guard Damon Jones. All three had been indicted for his or her alleged involvement in a playing ring linked to mob exercise.
As reported by Torre, the poker sport Gates allegedly hosted was a part of the identical community of rigged video games and unlawful betting that federal officers say operated in a number of states. The NBA positioned each Rozier and Billups on administrative go away following their arrests.
Different NBA names have surfaced through the investigation, although not all have been charged. Kevin Garnett reportedly walked out of a 2019 poker sport after realizing it wasn’t the afterparty he had anticipated. Ty Lue, present head coach of the LA Clippers, was additionally current at a separate poker occasion in Las Vegas that very same 12 months, however sources stated he performed at a unique desk than Billups.
Gates, who was enshrined within the Professional Soccer Corridor of Fame this summer time, performed 16 seasons with the San Diego Chargers and nonetheless holds the NFL report for landing receptions by a decent finish with 116.
He final performed in 2018 and was an eight-time Professional Bowl choice.
Federal authorities haven’t confirmed whether or not Gates will face prices.
The investigation is ongoing as prosecutors proceed to evaluate the total scope of the alleged playing operation.
The Division of Justice introduced the 34 arrests on Thursday, signaling that the case is much from over.
