Bulls React to NBA Gambling Scandal as Investigation Unfolds

Kevin Lu

Oct 24, 2025, 19:04

Kevin Lu

Oct 24, 2025, 19:04

Updated at: Oct 24, 2025, 21:09

As the FBI investigation into the recent alleged gambling violations in the NBA involving the Portland Trail Blazers head coach, Chauncey Billups, the Miami Heat player, Terry Rozier, and former NBA player Damon Jones continues to unfold, the Chicago Bulls shared their reactions Friday before traveling to Orlando for their second game of the season.

Head coach Billy Donovan said he was “surprised” about the allegations, given his personal connections to those involved. He has maintained a strong relationship with Billups throughout his career and knows Rozier through his friendship with Coach Rick Pitino, the current St. Johnson’s head coach who coached the guard at Louisville from 2013 to 2015.

“I have had a really good relationship (with Chauncey). He's always been really good," Donovan said. "I know the way (Pitino) spoke about Terry, you just get surprised by those things. And I'm sure we don't have all the details. There's probably more to come out.”

Nikola Vučević, coming off a dominant 28-point performance in Wednesday's season opener, offered a more comprehensive view on gambling's broader impact on society and sports. The veteran center expressed “frustration” about how gambling particularly affects players' interactions with fans and the integrity of the game.

"It's unfortunate to see that happening in our league," Vučević said. "I think that in general, gambling is a big problem, not only here, but worldwide. But I think now that it's got into sports, a lot of people are involved in it. A lot of people gamble, and unfortunately, a lot of people get stuck in it, and it's hard to get out. It's available on your phone. All you gotta do is download an app and you can just play."

Vučević said how gambling culture has changed fan interactions with players. Instead of hearing encouragement about team success, players now frequently hear fans discussing parlays and individual stat targets. He said even some relevant comments came from teenagers.

Oct 22, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls center Nikola Vucevic (9) defends against Detroit Pistons forward Isaiah Stewart (28) during the first half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images

"Honestly, it pisses me off, because it's disrespectful to the game," Vučević said. "We put so much work into trying to do the right thing on the court and play the right way and try to win for our team and people are focused on if I'm gonna get 10 rebounds or not."

The NBA rules strictly prohibit anyone affiliated with the league, including players, coaches, and team employees, from betting on any NBA-related property, which includes the NBA, WNBA, G League, summer league, Basketball Africa League, and NBA2K League. However, if sports betting is legal in their area, players and employees are permitted to bet on other sports outside of basketball.

Vučević also detailed the NBA's educational efforts to prevent violations. He said the team holds meetings every season, typically led by team lawyers who explain strict rules.

"Nowadays you have to be even more careful, because you never know who might just come to you and ask ‘hey, is Coby (White) back?’," he said. "You might say ‘nah, he's not,’ because you're not thinking anything out of it. But they might use it."

Bulls React to NBA Gambling Scandal as Investigation Unfolds