Former NBA star Malik Beasley negotiates a plea deal with the Department of Justice over game manipulation charges.

Former NBA guard Malik Beasley is currently negotiating a plea agreement with the Department of Justice in a New York federal court. This development follows his initial not guilty plea regarding accusations that he manipulated his on-court performance to benefit sports bettors.

The federal investigation alleges that Beasley altered his play during the 2024 season while playing for the Milwaukee Bucks. Investigators claim these actions were designed to enrich sports bettors, ease his personal financial debts, and meet specific bookmaker expectations.

Defense attorney Steve Haney confirmed that negotiations with the government are ongoing, with an expected direction in the coming days, according to information published by bleache.

Federal Gambling Investigation Details

Beasley, 29, was named alongside sports agent Paolo Zamorano in an indictment unsealed during the summer. The sweeping federal gambling investigation has already resulted in more than three dozen arrests across the sports industry.

Zamorano, 39, previously represented former NBA player Ed Davis. Prosecutors accuse Davis of acting as a gatekeeper in the alleged scheme, having lent money to Beasley after the guard accumulated significant gambling losses.

Performance Manipulation Allegations

The federal indictment states that Beasley fixed or attempted to fix his performance in at least four games during his tenure with the Milwaukee Bucks. In exchange, bettors allegedly bribed him and helped reduce his outstanding financial obligations to Davis.

Text messages cited in the indictment reveal discussions between Davis and Beasley regarding sports betting markets. Davis reportedly texted Beasley, stating that sports betting is the only way to beat Vegas because they hold the edge everywhere else.

Financial Troubles and NBA Career

Beasley faced severe financial difficulties, including unpaid debts to a Detroit landlord, a Milwaukee barber, and a Minnesota dentist. A sports marketing agency also secured a $1 million default judgment against him in a 2025 lawsuit.

Professionally, Beasley has remained out of the league since the 2024-25 season, where he played for the Detroit Pistons on a one-year, $6 million contract. He averaged 16 points per game and is one of five players in league history to hit over 300 three-pointers in a single season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Malik Beasley?

Malik Beasley is a 29-year-old former professional basketball player who previously played in the NBA for teams such as the Milwaukee Bucks and Detroit Pistons.

Why is Malik Beasley facing federal charges?

Beasley faces federal charges for allegedly altering his on-court performance in 2024 to enrich sports bettors and help resolve his personal gambling debts.

What is the status of Malik Beasley's legal case?

After initially pleading not guilty in a New York federal court, Beasley is currently negotiating a plea agreement with the Department of Justice.

Which teams did Malik Beasley play for in the NBA?

Malik Beasley played for several NBA franchises, including a stint with the Milwaukee Bucks during the 2024 season and the Detroit Pistons.