NBA Requests Lakers Staff Phones as Part of Insider Betting Probe

^{Pictured: Los Angeles Lakers players}

The NBA has asked several teams — including the Los Angeles Lakers — to turn over staff members’ phones and electronic data as part of an investigation into the possible use of non-public information for betting purposes. The review is being conducted by the law firm Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, which the league hired following a series of federal cases related to illegal wagering, The Athletic reports.

According to the outlet, several Lakers employees have already voluntarily handed over their devices to investigators. Among them are strength and conditioning coach Mike Mancias and longtime team administrator Randy Mims, both of whom have worked closely with LeBron James for years.

The league is examining whether anyone may have accessed confidential information regarding player health or game availability and passed it to third parties.

The investigation was launched after federal charges were filed against former NBA player Damon Jones. Prosecutors allege he attempted to obtain and relay details about LeBron James’ status before the February 9, 2023 game between the Lakers and Milwaukee Bucks. Jones is suspected of knowing in advance that James would sit out and of advising others to bet on the Bucks.

The Lakers employees whose phones have been requested are not criminal suspects and are being treated as part of an internal audit. Their cooperation is voluntary, and the NBA has not disclosed further details as the investigation remains ongoing.