Gambling has long been a favorite pastime for many NBA players, offering excitement and the potential for huge winnings. However, the high-stakes world of gambling also comes with significant risks, including financial loss, scams, and even outright robbery. Several NBA players have found themselves in dangerous situations where they were targeted due to their wealth and gambling habits. These incidents serve as cautionary tales about the dangers of gambling in unsafe environments.
Recent reports suggest that professional boxer Adrien Broner was involved in rigged dice games that scammed NBA players out of large sums of money. According to a Newsweek article published on March 21, 2025, a confidential witness informed authorities about a high-stakes dice game in Los Angeles in June 2019. The witness claimed that Broner, identified as “A.B.,” and his associates used manipulated dice to ensure that NBA players lost significant amounts of money.
Additional details emerged from a complaint involving alleged gang leader Eugene “Big U” Henley. According to The Source on March 24, 2025, Henley reportedly ordered his associates to confront Broner to recover the money on behalf of the defrauded NBA players. This incident is part of a larger investigation into Henley’s alleged activities, which include extorting celebrities for protection at events.
As of now, Broner has not been officially charged in connection with these allegations. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to examine his role in the alleged scheme.
NBA players often have substantial disposable income, and many are drawn to gambling for the thrill and competitive nature of betting large sums of money. Whether in casinos, private poker games, or underground gambling circles, the opportunity to win—or lose—millions in a single night is a reality for many professional athletes. However, this environment also attracts criminals and hustlers who see wealthy players as prime targets.
One of the most well-known cases of an NBA player being robbed in connection to gambling is that of Antoine Walker. The former All-Star, known for his lavish lifestyle, reportedly lost over $100 million due to poor financial decisions and gambling. In 2007, he was robbed at gunpoint in his Chicago home by criminals who had been tracking his movements. The incident highlighted the dangers that high-profile athletes face when their gambling habits become public knowledge.
Another infamous case involved Gilbert Arenas and Javaris Crittenton. While not a direct robbery, their locker room altercation over a gambling debt became one of the most shocking incidents in NBA history. After Crittenton allegedly owed Arenas money from a card game, tensions escalated, leading both players to brandish firearms in the team locker room. This event not only damaged their reputations but also revealed how gambling disputes could spiral into dangerous situations.
Charles Barkley, an NBA Hall of Famer, has been open about his gambling losses, admitting to losing millions over the years. While Barkley was not directly robbed, he has acknowledged being hustled in casino settings, where experienced gamblers target wealthy but inexperienced players. His experiences highlight another form of financial exploitation that NBA players often face.
NBA players make easy targets for gambling-related crimes due to their immense wealth and public personas. Criminals, scammers, and professional gamblers see them as prime opportunities, whether by rigging private games, exploiting their lack of gambling experience, or outright robbing them. In some cases, players themselves rack up massive gambling debts, putting them at risk of threats or violence.
To stay safe, NBA players must be aware of the risks associated with gambling. They should avoid carrying large sums of cash, gamble only in secure environments, and be cautious of private games where the rules might not be fair. Financial education is also key, as many athletes enter the NBA without understanding how to manage their money responsibly. Seeking advice from financial advisors and security professionals can help players make smarter choices and avoid dangerous situations.
While gambling can be an exciting and competitive outlet for NBA players, it also comes with serious risks. From being targeted for robbery to falling victim to scams and disputes over debts, the consequences of high-stakes gambling can be severe. By exercising caution and staying informed, NBA players can protect themselves from financial ruin and potential harm while still enjoying their wealth responsibly.
