Former NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas faces federal charges for allegedly operating an illegal high-stakes poker ring from his Los Angeles mansion.
The 43-year-old basketball veteran was arrested alongside five co-defendants, among them what prosecutors describe as a "suspected organized crime figure" from Israel. According to BBC News, Arenas pleaded not guilty during his Wednesday court appearance and was released after posting a $50,000 bond.
Federal prosecutors charged Arenas, known by his basketball nickname "Agent Zero," with three crimes encompassing operating an illegal gambling business and making false statements to investigators. The indictment alleges he rented his Encino mansion between September 2021 and July 2022 specifically for illegal poker games. Charging documents indicate Arenas directed co-defendants to prepare his home for these high-stakes gambling sessions and collect a "rake" from each pot.
Organized Crime Connections Alleged
The operation allegedly involved sophisticated criminal elements beyond simple gambling violations. Co-defendant Yevgeni Gershman, labeled by officials as a "suspected organized crime figure from Israel," reportedly managed the hiring of young women to serve drinks, provide massages, and offer companionship to players in exchange for tips. These women were subsequently charged a "tax" according to prosecutors.
The gambling operation featured elaborate arrangements with professional chefs, valets, and armed security guards hired by the defendants. Gershman faces additional charges of immigration and marriage fraud separate from the gambling allegations. The sophisticated nature of the operation suggests coordination beyond casual poker games among friends.
Other co-defendants consist of Evgenni Tourevski, 48, Allan Austria, 52, Yarin Cohen, 27, and Ievgen Krachun, 43. Each faces various charges related to the alleged gambling enterprise that operated from Arenas's luxury residence.
Evidence and False Statements
Prosecutors present compelling evidence through text messages between Arenas and his co-defendants. Among the seized materials, investigators found a photograph of a poker table bearing Arenas's name and likeness, directly linking him to the gambling operation. This evidence contradicts his alleged denials to federal investigators.
The indictment states Arenas falsely claimed to know nothing about gambling activities in his home when questioned by authorities. He subsequently filed a petition attempting to recover money seized during a federal raid on July 20, 2022. These actions form the basis for the false statements charges against the former basketball star.
Under California law, poker games become illegal when organizers take a house cut or fee from the proceedings. The "rake" collection allegedly directed by Arenas violated these state gambling regulations and triggered federal prosecution.
Legal History and Career Background
This marks Arenas's second significant legal controversy following his professional basketball career. In January 2010, he faced illegal gun possession charges after drawing a firearm during a card game in the Washington Wizards locker room. He pleaded guilty to those charges and received probation.
Arenas enjoyed an 11-season NBA career, making the All-Star team three times while playing for the Golden State Warriors, Washington Wizards, Orlando Magic, and Memphis Grizzlies. His last NBA game occurred in 2012, after which he transitioned to media work, hosting a podcast called "Gil's Arena," where former players discuss basketball. The former point guard earned his "Agent Zero" nickname during his peak years as an elite NBA performer.
His basketball success provided the wealth and connections that allegedly enabled the sophisticated gambling operation prosecutors now seek to prosecute. The transition from professional athletics to alleged criminal enterprise represents a dramatic fall for the once-celebrated player.
