Antonio Gates has been linked to a Miami poker recreation allegedly rigged by a federal playing ring that has now expanded its attain from the NBA to the NFL.

Antonio Gates allegedly hosted a manipulated poker recreation in Miami that has now pulled the NFL right into a widening federal investigation initially centered on the NBA.

The Hall of Fame tight finish is the primary NFL determine named within the ongoing investigation into unlawful sports activities betting and poker video games tied to organized crime, in accordance with journalist Pablo Torre.

Sources instructed Torre that Gates hosted the Miami recreation, which was allegedly orchestrated by Curtis Meeks — a person indicted by federal prosecutors final Thursday.

The probe, which has already led to 34 arrests, initially focused NBA personnel however now seems to be increasing throughout skilled sports activities.

Earlier this week, the FBI arrested Terry Rozier of the Miami Heat, Chauncey Billups, head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers, and former NBA guard Damon Jones. All three have been indicted for his or her alleged involvement in a playing ring linked to mob exercise.

As reported by Torre, the poker recreation Gates allegedly hosted was a part of the identical community of rigged video games and unlawful betting that federal officers say operated in a number of states. The NBA positioned each Rozier and Billups on administrative depart following their arrests.

Other NBA names have surfaced throughout the investigation, although not all have been charged. Kevin Garnett reportedly walked out of a 2019 poker recreation after realizing it wasn’t the afterparty he had anticipated. Ty Lue, present head coach of the LA Clippers, was additionally current at a separate poker occasion in Las Vegas that very same yr, however sources stated he performed at a unique desk than Billups.

Gates, who was enshrined within the Pro Football Hall of Fame this summer time, performed 16 seasons with the San Diego Chargers and nonetheless holds the NFL file for landing receptions by a decent finish with 116.

He final performed in 2018 and was an eight-time Pro Bowl choice.

Federal authorities haven’t confirmed whether or not Gates will face fees.

The investigation is ongoing as prosecutors proceed to evaluate the total scope of the alleged playing operation.

The Department of Justice introduced the 34 arrests on Thursday, signaling that the case is much from over.

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