The NBA could be facing billions in potential losses following the gambling scandal that has rocked the league, according to gaming law expert Marc Dunbar.
With 31 individuals, including Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups and players Terry Rozier and Damon Jones, charged in a major federal gambling bust, Dunbar told The Washington Post that the situation places the league in serious financial and reputational danger.
“The risk to the league to defend this and all of the dominoes off of it, including the overall integrity of the brand, is definitely nine figures, and could be 10 figures,” Dunbar said. “I wouldn’t be surprised if a lawsuit is dropped by or before next Friday.”
NBA is risking billions in legal expenses, brand damage over betting scandal, experts say: ‘Everybody is concerned’ https://t.co/shcmKMHX3P pic.twitter.com/c1mK5hQAwL
— New York Post (@nypost) October 25, 2025
Gaming attorney Ernest Matthews added that the NBA had already been aware of an investigation involving Rozier dating back to last season. Following his arrest last Thursday, Matthews said it’s inevitable that many fans will start associating the league itself with the scandal.
Dunbar also pointed out that bettors could struggle to take legal action against sportsbooks because of the “onerous terms and conditions” those platforms impose. Instead, he warned, the league could become the main target of class-action lawsuits.
“I can guarantee you that there’ll be some resulting class actions coming out of all this,” Matthews agreed.
Adam Silver Summoned by U.S. Congress Over NBA Gambling Scandal
What started as an internal controversy within the organization has now drawn attention from U.S. lawmakers, as Commissioner Adam Silver has been summoned by Congress to brief them on the league’s ongoing gambling scandal.
The House Committee on Energy and Commerce requested Silver to provide an update on the allegations of illegal betting and possible game-fixing involving its personnel.
According to reports, Terry Rozier is accused of sharing insider information about his injuries to benefit bettors, while Chauncey Billups allegedly took part in high-stakes poker games tied to organized crime. Damon Jones, though no longer in the league, reportedly committed his offenses while still active.
Speaking to the media on Friday, Silver expressed disappointment over the arrests, emphasizing that the NBA’s integrity and fair competition must remain its top priorities.
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Sabel has been working as a field reporter for People’s Television Network (PTV), mainly about the Philippine Basketball Association since 2016 and has been elevated to Executive Producer for sports in 2022. Aside from being on top of the Philippine sports scene, she is also a running enthusiast. You can also follow her on X at @SabelReyes2 and Instagram at @msabelreyes.
