Malik Beasley and former NBA forward Ed Davis are facing serious federal allegations after prosecutors unveiled a gambling indictment that includes alleged point-shaving, prop bet manipulation and money laundering conspiracies.
Beasley, Davis and four additional defendants have been charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, bribery in sporting contests, conspiracy to commit honest services wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering, according to a release from the U.S. Department of Justice.
Among the most striking details included in the indictment are a series of text messages allegedly exchanged between Beasley and Davis, who previously played together with the Minnesota Timberwolves during the 2020-21 season.
The conversations suggest Davis attempted to move discussions away from traditional text messaging and onto another platform.
“You got Snapchat?” Davis allegedly asked Beasley.
“Not really why,” Beasley replied.
After Beasley reportedly questioned whether they could continue the conversation through text messages, Davis allegedly responded:
“Better to talk on there. We can make some good money.”
Federal investigators claim the conversations were part of a broader operation in which Beasley allegedly provided information regarding his expected statistical performances during the 2023-24 season with the Milwaukee Bucks.
Prosecutors allege Davis then shared that information with other individuals named in the indictment.
Three specific games were highlighted by investigators. One occurred on January 26, 2024 against the Cleveland Cavaliers, when Beasley allegedly indicated he planned to finish under his rebounding total.
Another game cited was Milwaukee’s February 27, 2024 matchup against the Charlotte Hornets, where investigators allege Beasley intended to finish under his points total while exceeding his rebound number. He ultimately recorded six points and four rebounds.
A March 10, 2024 game against the Los Angeles Clippers was also included in the filing, with prosecutors alleging Beasley indicated he expected to exceed his rebound total.
“These defendants allegedly operated an illegal betting ring in an attempt to unlawfully earn hundreds of thousands of dollars,” FBI Assistant Director in Charge James Barnacle said in the Justice Department release. “As alleged, Malik Beasley allowed himself to be bought and altered his gametime performance to line pockets of Ed Davis and his other co-conspirators. The FBI continues to dismantle fraudulent schemes that erode the integrity of any institution, including our nation’s professional sports leagues.”
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