Ex-NBA Star Gilbert Arenas Accused of Running Illegal Gambling Ring from California Mansion

Former NBA star Gilbert Arenas has found himself at the center of a federal investigation, accused of operating an illegal gambling business out of a luxury California mansion. The U.S. Department of Justice confirmed on Wednesday that Arenas and five others have been arrested in connection with the alleged high-stakes poker ring.

What Are the Charges?

Arenas, 43, faces three felony charges:

• One count of conspiracy to operate an illegal gambling business
• One count of operating an illegal gambling business
• One count of making false statements to federal investigators

He appeared in a Los Angeles federal courtroom on Wednesday, pleaded not guilty, and was released on $50,000 bond. His trial is currently scheduled to begin on September 23. So far, no attorney has been listed for Arenas in the court’s records.

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The Alleged Operation

According to the indictment, Arenas allegedly rented out a property he owned in Encino—known as the Gable House—to host illegal poker games as recently as 2022. The court documents describe a lavish setup, including a gold-trimmed poker table labeled “ARENAS POKER CLUB” and decorated with an image of a basketball player wearing a jersey with Arenas’ name.

Prosecutors say Arenas directed one of the co-defendants to find people to host the poker games and to collect rent on his behalf. The illegal games included popular high-stakes formats like Pot Limit Omaha, with co-conspirators allegedly managing the games, hiring staff, and collecting fees from every pot.

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False Statements and Seized Funds

One of the more serious accusations against Arenas is that he lied to federal agents while trying to reclaim money seized from the mansion. In a legal filing, he claimed he had no involvement in activities at the house on July 19, 2022—the night federal agents say an illegal poker game took place. But prosecutors say Arenas not only knew about the game but also provided equipment and collected rent from the operation.

Who Else Was Involved?

The five others arrested are also facing charges of:

• Conspiracy to operate an illegal gambling business
• Operating an illegal gambling business

Their names have not yet been made public, but the DOJ says they played various roles in running the games, including organizing events, recruiting staff, and managing finances tied to the gambling ring.

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What’s at Stake?

If convicted, Arenas and his co-defendants each face a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison per count.

Gilbert Arenas’ NBA Legacy

Once known as one of the most dynamic scorers in the NBA, Gilbert Arenas played for the Golden State Warriors, Washington Wizards, Orlando Magic, and Memphis Grizzlies. A three-time NBA All-Star, he earned fame in the mid-2000s for his explosive performances and controversial off-court moments.

Now, the former basketball star’s future hinges on the outcome of this high-stakes legal battle.