No one was quite sure how to define Damon Jones. While he wasn't an official player for the Los Angeles Lakers, he frequently engaged in card games with the team during flights. He didn't hold a coaching position, yet he donned team-issued gear and casually passed balls to LeBron James during pre-game warm-ups. Despite lacking an official title, Jones was a constant presence on the Lakers’ team bus and in the locker room. “He was kinda just around,” shared a team source, who requested anonymity to speak candidly.
Jones, a friend of James, enjoyed special access due to their relationship throughout the 2022-23 NBA season. However, this relationship has now entangled him in a federal gambling investigation that resulted in multiple arrests, including those of Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier. Jones, 49, from Houston, has been charged in ongoing federal cases; one involves an alleged scheme with Billups to defraud poker players, while another has serious implications for the NBA. This latter case charges Jones with providing bettors with insider information about the availability of James and other Lakers players.
A source close to LeBron James stated that he was unaware of Jones’ alleged actions, describing it as “unfortunate” that someone he trusted would exploit their friendship for financial gain. Jones’ past decade in the NBA appears to be a journey fueled by his connection to James, aiming to reclaim a fraction of the wealth he once enjoyed as a player. During the 2022-23 season, although not officially part of Lakers coach Darvin Ham’s staff, Jones was often seen around the team, assisting in drills without any official responsibilities. His presence was more about friendship than professional obligation, as he was there primarily for James.
Despite his unofficial role, Jones had access to the team that was atypical for someone not on staff, enjoying privileges usually reserved for those close to star players. “It was a weird deal,” noted another source. “We really enjoyed being around him because he’s a really funny dude. He’s a great storyteller.” However, this informal role allegedly extended into less savory territory as federal prosecutors revealed Jones used his Lakers access to place bets. On February 9, 2023, he allegedly informed a co-conspirator to bet heavily on the Milwaukee Bucks due to insider knowledge that “Player 3” would not play, a detail not yet disclosed in the team’s injury report.
This player turned out to be James, who had recently become the NBA's all-time scoring champion. The investigation into Jones didn't stop with the Lakers; he reportedly shared information about another top player’s injury status in January 2024, leading to a $100,000 bet against the Lakers. The Lakers won the game, and the player performed remarkably well, raising further questions about Jones' motives and actions.
Born in Galveston, Texas, Jones played college basketball for the Houston Cougars and began his professional career undrafted in 1997. He found success in the International Basketball Association and later the Continental Basketball Association, eventually making his way into the NBA with teams like the New Jersey Nets, Boston Celtics, and Golden State Warriors. His career peaked while playing alongside LeBron James in Cleveland, where he became known for his memorable late-game shot that secured a playoff series victory.
Despite earning nearly $22 million over his NBA career, Jones faced significant financial difficulties, leading him to attempt to file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy twice, both of which were dismissed. His lavish lifestyle and gambling habits contributed to significant financial losses, as he often played cards with teammates who had deeper pockets.
Jones’ connection with James led him back into the NBA fold in 2014 when James returned to the Cavaliers. Although not officially on the coaching staff initially, Jones worked closely with players and was eventually promoted. His time with the Cavaliers was marked by ups and downs, including a notable altercation with player J.R. Smith and his eventual dismissal when the team struggled.
As of 2022, Jones rejoined James, this time with the Lakers, where he was involved in team dynamics, including a celebrated 3-point celebration that referenced his past card games. However, the recent federal gambling allegations may overshadow his contributions and once again raise questions about his influence within the NBA. The story of Damon Jones serves as a cautionary tale about the fine line between friendship and professionalism in the world of sports.
