Although sports betting has been legalized in many American states since 2018, the practice has been generally prohibited since 1992, with only Nevada actually allowing betting on sports leagues.
A decision by the United States Supreme Court changed that five years ago, striking down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 to let each state choose whether or not to legalize sports betting. Which 37 (plus the District of Columbia) of them have now done, in a phased manner.
FBI investigation into amateur bookmaker
In this transition period, the FBI investigated one Wayne Nix, a minor league baseball player who operated as an illegal bookmaker in various circles.
According to the Washington Post, he notably took at least one bet from Scottie Pippen, with whom he was golfing. Although he participated in a golf tournament at Michael Jordan's private course in Florida, along with other NBA owners, there is no indication that “His Airness” made a bet through Wayne Nix.
On the other hand, Maverick Carter, LeBron James' manager, admitted to having used the bookmaker's services.
“In 2021 and before 38 states and the District of Columbia legalized sports betting, Maverick Carter was questioned only once by federal officers regarding their investigation of Wayne Nix”said Adam Mendelsohn, spokesperson for LeBron James and Maverick Carter, in a statement. “Mr. Carter was not the target of the investigation, he cooperated, was never charged and has never been contacted again about this matter. »
“No memory” of betting on the Lakers
Maverick Carter explained to investigators that he made around twenty bets via Wayne Nix, for sums between $5,000 and $10,000. Betting on football and basketball matches. Did he bet on LeBron James' Lakers? Faced with investigators, Maverick Carter explained “not remembering”.
In fact, the “King’s” friend does not risk much. The NBA prohibits players, franchise employees, owners or even agents from betting on Big League matches, but it says nothing about “managers” or financial managers.
“Maverick does what he wants and at the end of the day, betting is now legal”replied LeBron James, interrogates on the issue in Oklahoma City. “You can go on your phone and do it now. And then he has no affiliation with the NBA or NFL, so he can do whatever he wants.”
