NBA player Malik Beasley has been indicted on federal sports gambling charges after prosecutors accused him of taking part in an alleged scheme to manipulate game performances during the 2023-24 season.
Beasley, former NBA player Edward Davis and four others are facing charges that include wire fraud conspiracy, bribery in sports contests and money laundering conspiracy, according to WXYZ.
Federal prosecutors allege that Beasley and Davis were involved in a plan to rig performances in certain games while Beasley was playing for the Milwaukee Bucks. The indictment claims Beasley accepted bribes to alter his play so others involved in the alleged scheme could place fraudulent bets.
Prosecutors also allege that Beasley had built up major gambling debts, and that some of those debts were reduced or paid off as part of the scheme.
Beasley’s attorney, Steve Haney, told CBS Sports that the basketball player plans to voluntarily surrender for arraignment in New York on Wednesday, July 1.
Haney also stressed that the indictment is only a charge and does not prove guilt.
The case is part of a wider investigation into illegal sports gambling involving several figures connected to the NBA. The allegations have raised fresh questions about the integrity of professional basketball at a time when legal sports betting has become a major part of the sports world.
The NBA has said it takes the allegations seriously and remains committed to protecting the integrity of the game.
For now, Beasley is expected to face the charges in court as the federal case moves forward.