NBA player Malik Beasley is at the center of a growing federal investigation linked to alleged gambling activity. The U.S. Attorney’s Office has launched the probe, although Beasley has not been charged with any crime and denies any wrongdoing.
Beasley’s attorney, Steve Haney, pushed back strongly on the headlines, telling PEOPLE the existence of an investigation “doesn’t mean he’s guilty of anything.”
“I’ve been doing this for over 20 years,” Haney said. “I’ve had numerous clients investigated federally who were never charged. Just because Malik’s name is tied to an investigation doesn’t mean he’s committed a crime, been banned from basketball, or anything of the sort. It simply means investigators are looking into something.”
Haney emphasized that people can be caught up in investigations without ever facing charges. “A lot of people are investigated for things they haven’t done,” he added.
The NBA confirmed it is cooperating with federal prosecutors. While details remain scarce, ESPN reported that the allegations stem from Beasley’s time with the Milwaukee Bucks during the 2023–2024 season. That year, the 28-year-old averaged 11.3 points over 79 games and made a career-high 77 starts.
Beasley most recently signed a one-year, $6 million deal with the Detroit Pistons, where he lit up the regular season with 319 three-pointers and averaged 16.3 points per game.
It’s still unclear whether the investigation will affect Beasley’s prospects for the upcoming season, especially as teams begin making key offseason decisions.
The Detroit Pistons released a brief statement acknowledging the investigation: “We are aware there is an investigation and have no other information.” The team deferred all further questions to the NBA.
This marks the second time in recent months that an NBA player has come under federal scrutiny for gambling-related concerns. In January, Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier was reportedly investigated over suspicious betting patterns linked to a March 2023 game. He has not been charged or disciplined.
As the league and federal officials continue to crack down on gambling-related misconduct, all eyes are now on Beasley’s next move—and whether this investigation will cast a shadow over his NBA future.