Former All-Star player arrested for illegal poker operation

Gilbert Arenas organized illegal poker games at his Encino mansion, leading to his arrest. Prosecutors are charging him with three counts.

They have indicted him for conspiracy, illegal gambling, and false statements. He appeared for his first hearing Wednesday in Los Angeles.

According to the indictment, these underground games took place from September 2021 to July 2022. Arthur Kats, one of his associates, allegedly managed the operation under Arenas’ direction, preparing the mansion for games, recruiting accomplices, and collecting rent on behalf of the former NBA star.

🚨Former NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas has been arrested on federal charges alleging his involvement in an illegal gambling operation centered around high-stakes poker games at a mansion he owned in Encino, California! pic.twitter.com/Ew35DDJvJc

— Eurohoops (@Eurohoopsnet) July 30, 2025

Sophisticated organization with criminal ties

Yevgeni « Giora » Gershman, an alleged member of an Israeli criminal group, is among the six indicted. The group organized poker games and took a commission from each pot.

The organizers employed staff to serve drinks, massages, and companionship for tips. They took a share of these tips.

If convicted, Arenas faces up to 15 years in prison. This case recalls his previous legal troubles, notably the December 2009 incident where he and his Washington Wizards teammate Javaris Crittenton brought guns into the locker room following a dispute during a card game.

Arenas, who retired in 2012 after 11 NBA seasons and three All-Star selections, has successfully transitioned into podcasting. His show « Gil’s Arena » has over a million subscribers on YouTube.