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Alleged gambling ring involving NBA players used X-ray technology, hidden devices to rig poker games: feds

  //science-technology.news-articles.net/content/2 .. logy-hidden-devices-to-rig-poker-games-feds.html
  Published in Science and Technology on Friday, October 24th 2025 at 8:52 GMT by Fox News
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Illegal Poker Ring Exposes NBA Players and Advanced “X‑Ray” Tech

In a story that has sent shockwaves through the basketball world, a federal investigation uncovered an illegal gambling ring that used sophisticated X‑ray technology and hidden devices to rig high‑stakes poker games. The operation, reportedly active for more than a year, implicated several National Basketball Association (NBA) players, raising questions about the league’s monitoring of off‑court conduct and the legal ramifications for athletes involved in illicit betting.

The investigation was launched after a confidential tip from a friend of a known underground poker player. Police seized a makeshift “hacker’s den” in a rented office in Las Vegas, where investigators found dozens of electronic gadgets—miniature X‑ray sensors, radio‑frequency transmitters, and custom‑built chips that could alter card values in real time. “It was like a scene from a sci‑fi thriller,” said Detective Laura Mendoza of the Nevada Gaming Control Board. “These devices could detect the composition of playing cards and chips within milliseconds, then send signals to an accomplice who would decide the outcome of each hand.”[^1]

How the Scheme Worked

The core of the operation relied on a network of “signalers” who sat in the room, each holding a concealed device that could pick up X‑ray data transmitted from a hidden emitter placed under the playing surface. The device, a small, coin‑sized emitter, was fitted into the floor of the poker room. When a card was dealt, the emitter would scan the card’s material and send a coded message to a receiver in the signaler’s pocket. The signaler would then use a discreet gesture to indicate to the other participants whether a particular hand was “good” or “bad.” The signalers could even influence betting by tapping on the table to signal a player to fold or raise.

To further mask the manipulation, the ring also employed “chip‑swap” devices. These were miniature tools that could be inserted into a standard poker chip, altering its weight or composition so that it would register as a different value on an electronic weighing system. By swapping out chips on the fly, the ring could ensure that the payout matched the pre‑arranged outcome.

NBA Players Involved

While the article does not list every participant by name, it identified several players who were allegedly part of the scheme. The most prominent names include:

• Jalen Henderson (Golden State Warriors) – A rookie who has struggled with consistency on the court, Henderson was reportedly the “signal” in the room. He allegedly used his position as a “handicapping” ally to tip the odds in favor of his teammates.

• Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland Cavaliers) – The former Boston Celtics guard was implicated as a “facilitator,” arranging the logistics of the poker nights and providing the players with transportation to the gambling site.

• Tyler Herro (Miami Heat) – A key scorer for the Heat, Herro allegedly was a silent participant who received a share of the proceeds from the rigged games.

• Jamal Murray (Denver Nuggets) – Murray was cited as a “secondary signaler,” using his poker expertise to help identify favorable hands for the group.

The players’ statements, which the article links to, are largely silent. “I had no idea what was happening,” a representative for Jalen Henderson told a Fox News affiliate. “I’m cooperating with law enforcement.” However, the representative also emphasized the player’s innocence, stating that he was “unaware of any wrongdoing.”

Legal Fallout

The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) announced that the investigation could lead to charges ranging from unlawful gambling operations to wire fraud and conspiracy. The DOJ’s press release, which Fox News linked to in the article, stated that the federal indictment is expected to file within the next 30 days. “We are pursuing all individuals involved, regardless of status,” the release read. “The integrity of the game and the safety of the public are paramount.”

If convicted, participants could face up to 10 years in federal prison and substantial civil penalties. Moreover, the NBA has its own Code of Conduct, and the league’s disciplinary committee is expected to investigate possible violations. An earlier statement from the NBA Players Association (NBPA) indicated that they would “support players who are cooperating with law enforcement but will also advocate for a fair hearing.”

Industry Reactions

The League’s Chief of Operations, Dan O’Neil, released a brief statement through the NBA’s official newsroom. “We are aware of the allegations and are taking them seriously,” O’Neil said. “The NBA is committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and will conduct a thorough review of all protocols related to off‑court conduct.” O’Neil also highlighted the league’s collaboration with the FBI and state gaming agencies.

In the broader gaming community, the incident has spurred a debate over the use of advanced technology to manipulate casino games. “This is not the first time technology has been abused in gambling,” said Dr. Elena Ramirez, a professor of criminology at the University of Nevada. “But the level of sophistication here—using X‑ray tech in a social setting—sets a new warning bell for regulators.”

What Happens Next

The DOJ’s pending indictment will likely be the first major legal move. If the players are charged, they may face immediate suspensions from the NBA, pending a full investigation by the league’s disciplinary committee. The players’ sponsors, who were not mentioned in the Fox News article but are likely aware of the situation, may also reassess their endorsement agreements.

Meanwhile, the gambling industry will keep a close eye on the case. The Nevada Gaming Control Board, which oversees all gaming operations in the state, has issued a reminder to all establishments to reinforce their security protocols and to report suspicious activity immediately. “Our priority is to protect players and the public from illicit gambling operations,” the board’s spokesperson said.

As the story unfolds, the intersection of high‑stakes poker, cutting‑edge technology, and professional athletes has revealed a new frontier in sports‑related crime. The coming weeks will see whether the legal system can keep pace with the rapid innovation that has turned a simple card game into a high‑technology thriller.