The long-time business manager of NBA superstar LeBron James admitted to using an illegal bookie to place basketball wagers. The Washington Post obtained access to federal law enforcement records that detail Maverick Carter’s activity. Agents were looking into a betting ring headed by former MLB player Wayne Nix when they interviewed the 42-year-old Carter in November 2021.

Carter at the time said he wasn’t aware of betting on the Lakers, for whom LeBron James has played since 2018. He also said he did not place any wagers on behalf of other individuals. A spokesperson for the duo confirmed that the business manager was interviewed over video once and fully cooperated, did not receive any charges, and was not contacted again regarding the investigation.

stakes usually ranging between $5,000 and $10,000

Carter explained that he placed about 20 basketball and football wagers in a one-year period, with the stakes usually ranging between $5,000 and $10,000. While the NBA has strict rules about players, officials, and team staff from betting on games, these rules do not extend to business managers.

Carter and James are friends from childhood in Ohio and have a variety of business interests together, including minority ownerships in the Liverpool soccer club and the Boston Red Sox.