By Alex Molina/ info@eurohoops.net
In the wake of the NBA’s latest betting scandal that has sent shockwaves through the league, Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal has spoken candidly about the issue, expressing both disappointment and a warning to current players.
O’Neal, as honest as ever, reflected on the temptations of gambling and the importance of knowing the boundaries set by the league.
“I don’t want to appear like I am a perfect guy: every now and then, when I go to Vegas, I play some cards, roulette,” O’Neal said in the latest episode of Inside the NBA. “You never want to get your name involved when you know the letter of the law. I know for a fact, they cancel practices and say ‘Don’t do this, don’t do this.’ They all had the information.”
“I’m ashamed that those guys would put their families and their careers in jeopardy.”@SHAQ reacts to the arrest of Chauncey Billups, Terry Rozier and Damon Jones in a sports gambling investigation. pic.twitter.com/J8XtbpMqKI
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) October 23, 2025
The NBA is facing integrity as investigations continue into alleged betting activity by several players and staff members. The league’s rules strictly prohibit gambling on NBA games, and the consequences can include suspensions, fines, or even lifetime bans.
O’Neal expressed particular disappointment in two former peers caught up in the controversy.
“I know Chauncey Billups and Damon Jones very well, played with him,” O’Neal said. “I’m ashamed that those guys would put their families and careers in jeopardy. There is an old saying in the hood: ‘All money ain’t good money.’ If you’re making $9 million a year, how much more do you need? You know that if you get caught you will get jail time, lose your career.”