Damon Jones was once a well-known figure in the NBA, recognized for his flashy style and confident demeanor. During his time with the Cleveland Cavaliers from 2005 to 2008, Jones was known for his flashy cars and suits, as well as his trash-talking and gambling habits. His license plate, "4Point8, " was a reference to a game-winning shot he made in 2006. Jones was a journeyman player, playing for nine teams in his first nine years in the league. He was also known for his overspending and financial troubles, declaring bankruptcy twice and being sued for unpaid loans.

Jones' confidence in his shooting skills was unwavering, and he often bragged about being one of the top shooters in the world. He was a regular in card games and often gambled with teammates. In 2023, Jones was indicted for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering. Prosecutors allege that he leaked non-public information to sports bettors while he was a voluntary member of the Los Angeles Lakers coaching staff. Jones pleaded not guilty to both counts.

Jones' financial troubles continued even after his playing career ended. He worked as a shooting consultant and assistant coach with the Cavaliers and their G-League affiliate, the Canton Charge. Despite his coaching career, Jones continued to overspend and was known to ask friends and former co-workers for loans. In 2013 and 2015, Jones and his wife filed for bankruptcy, listing minimal income and assets. Jones also had a management company in Houston file eviction notices against him.

Jones' friendship with LeBron James was well-known, and the two remained close even after Jones' playing career ended. Jones was a part of the Lakers' staff in the 2022-23 season, ostensibly because of James' comfort level with him. However, the indictments allege that Jones sold information about Laker player availability to gamblers in both 2023 and 2024. James did not know that Jones was leaking information about his status, according to multiple sources close to the player.

The indictments have had a significant impact on Jones' life. For someone who sought the spotlight and worked to profit off of it, it is a drastic change to how he'd lived his life. Jones and his attorney have declined all interview requests since his arrest, and they did not respond to questions entering or leaving the courthouse in Brooklyn earlier this month.

DAMON JONES

The Highs and Lows of Damon Jones: From NBA Courts to Legal Troubles

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