Chauncey Billups, the head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers, has pleaded not guilty in a federal court concerning charges related to an alleged rigged poker scheme. Billups, who appeared in Brooklyn federal court, is facing multiple charges connected to illegal gambling activities. His bail has been set at $5 million. Alongside Billups, 31 other individuals are embroiled in the scandal, with some reportedly engaging in plea negotiations. This case has drawn attention due to its connections with organized crime, with the former NBA player cited discussing the difficulties of extricating oneself from dealings with the mafia. The legal proceedings surrounding the gambling allegations continue to unfold, with multiple defendants in the case navigating plea discussions.