Former NBA players Malik Beasley and Ed Davis have been indicted on federal charges related to a gambling scheme involving the manipulation of Beasley's on-court performance. The indictment, unsealed on June 29, alleges that Beasley, while playing for the Milwaukee Bucks, conspired with Davis and others to alter his statistics in multiple games to benefit illegal betting operations.
The charges include wire fraud conspiracy, bribery in sporting contests, honest services wire fraud conspiracy, and money laundering conspiracy. Four other individuals—William Brown, Robert Gorodetsky, Ernesto Plascencia, and current NBA player agent Paolo Zamorano—were also indicted as co-conspirators. Prosecutors allege that Beasley received bribes to underperform or overperform in specific statistical categories, such as rebounds and points, to ensure profitable bets.
The scheme allegedly involved games between December 2023 and April 2024, with Beasley providing inside information to Davis, who then shared it with co-conspirators to place fraudulent wagers. In one instance, Beasley reportedly told Davis he would underperform in rebounds during a January 2024 game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, resulting in successful bets. The indictment details similar incidents in games against the Charlotte Hornets and Los Angeles Clippers.
Prosecutors claim the scheme involved hundreds of thousands of dollars in fraudulent wagers. Beasley's attorney has maintained his client's innocence, stating that the indictment is not proof of guilt. The NBA has also launched an investigation into the allegations, which could result in further disciplinary action against Beasley.
Beasley, who played for several NBA teams including the Denver Nuggets, Minnesota Timberwolves, Utah Jazz, Los Angeles Lakers, and Detroit Pistons, is currently playing in Puerto Rico. Davis, who last played in the NBA in 2022, was among those placing bets on Beasley's performance. Several defendants have been arrested, and court appearances are pending.