NBA Free Agent Malik Beasley Under Federal Investigation for Gambling Allegations

Detroit, MI – NBA free agent Malik Beasley is currently the subject of a federal investigation by the U.S. District Attorney’s office regarding allegations of gambling on NBA games and prop bets. The serious development has reportedly halted talks for a new multi-year contract between Beasley and the Detroit Pistons, where he recently completed a career-best season.

The investigation primarily focuses on activities during the 2023-24 NBA season, when Beasley was a member of the Milwaukee Bucks. Sources indicate that at least one prominent U.S. sportsbook detected “unusually heavy betting” interest in Beasley’s statistical propositions, or “prop bets,” beginning around January 2024.  One specific instance cited by reports involved significant odds movement on an “under” bet for Beasley’s rebounds in a January 31, 2024 game between the Bucks and the Portland Trail Blazers, with heavy action pushing the line dramatically. Beasley ultimately recorded six rebounds in that contest, exceeding the initial “under” mark.

Beasley’s attorney, Steve Haney, released a statement emphasizing, “An investigation is not a charge. Malik is afforded the same right of the presumption of innocence as anyone else under the U.S. Constitution. As of now, he has not been charged with anything.”

The NBA has confirmed its cooperation with federal prosecutors in the ongoing investigation. This probe follows a recent precedent set by the league’s lifetime ban of former Toronto Raptors forward Jontay Porter in April 2024 for his involvement in a gambling scheme, which included disclosing confidential information to bettors and placing wagers on NBA games. Another player, Terry Rozier (formerly of the Charlotte Hornets), was also reportedly under investigation for unusual betting patterns in a March 2023 game, though he has not faced charges or sanctions to date.

The allegations against Beasley come at a critical juncture in his career. After a strong showing with the Pistons in the 2024-25 season, where he averaged 16.3 points and made a franchise-record 319 three-pointers while shooting 42% from beyond the arc, he was considered one of the top free agents available. The Pistons were reportedly in serious discussions with Beasley for a three-year, $42-45 million deal, but those negotiations have been put on hold pending the outcome of the federal inquiry.

Beasley, 28, has had a nine-year NBA career, playing for the Denver Nuggets, Minnesota Timberwolves, Utah Jazz, Los Angeles Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Detroit Pistons.This isn’t the first time Beasley has faced off-court issues; he was previously suspended for 12 games in 2021 following a felony gun charge.

The increasing prevalence of legalized sports betting across the United States has raised concerns within professional sports leagues about the integrity of their games. The NBA’s swift and decisive action in the Jontay Porter case underscored its zero-tolerance policy for players engaging in gambling activities related to the league. The investigation into Malik Beasley further highlights the challenges and risks associated with the expanding sports betting landscape for athletes.

As the investigation unfolds, the basketball world will be closely watching for further developments, which could have significant implications for Beasley’s career and the NBA’s broader efforts to safeguard the integrity of its competition.