Maverick Carter, the longtime business partner and manager of LeBron James, has admitted to placing bets on NBA games through an illegal bookie, as reported by The Washington Post. Carter’s involvement came to light during an investigation into bookie Wayne Nix two years ago when he confessed to federal agents.
Nix, who had connections with former MLB All-Star Yasiel Puig and NBA Hall of Famer Scottie Pippen, pleaded guilty to running an offshore book. Carter, however, stated that he was uncertain if he had placed bets on the Los Angeles Lakers, the team James currently plays for. He also denied placing any wagers on behalf of others.
LeBron James Partner Admits Betting on NBA Through Bookie
According to reports, Carter made approximately 20 bets on NFL, NCAA football, and NBA games, with each bet ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. It is worth noting that Carter did not violate any NBA rules and was not charged with any wrongdoing.
The NBA strictly prohibits players, coaches, and league officials from gambling on games, while the NBA Players’ Association only prohibits agents, not business managers, from betting. Carter, as James’ business manager and not an agent, falls outside the scope of the ban. Rich Paul serves as James’ agent.
Carter’s interview with federal law enforcement regarding the investigation into Wayne Nix was a one-time occurrence. “In 2021 and before 38 states and the District of Columbia legalized sports betting, Maverick Carter was interviewed a single time by federal law enforcement regarding their investigation into Wayne Nix,” stated a spokesperson for Carter and James. The spokesperson clarified that Carter was not the target of the investigation, fully cooperated, was never charged, and was not contacted again on the matter.
Carter and James have been connected since their high school days when they played basketball together at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School in Akron, Ohio. In 2020, they founded the SpringHill Company, an entertainment and production company. They also hold minority ownership stakes in the Boston Red Sox and English soccer club Liverpool. Notably, no NBA player has been suspended for gambling, although former referee Tim Donaghy served jail time for game-fixing in the 2000s.
While Carter’s admission raises eyebrows, it is important to note that he did not violate any NBA regulations, and his involvement with the bookie investigation did not result in charges.
Read More: Watch Kid Sitting Courtside Trash LeBron James For Flopping During Game
As the business partner of one of the most prominent figures in basketball, Carter’s actions should be viewed in the context of the industry’s rules and regulations. The focus should remain on the continued success of James and the significant contributions he and Carter have made to the sports and entertainment world.
