Billups Trial in New York: Pleads with Cosa Nostra Members

The trial of Chauncey Billups begins in New York, with the former coach of the Portland Trail Blazers pleading alongside members of the Cosa Nostra in connection with the illegal betting case in the NBA.

The charges relate to match-fixing and illegal profits from betting. Billups, who was brought before a Federal court in Brooklyn, is expected to plead not guilty.

According to Reuters, members of the Cosa Nostra crime syndicate will also be pleading. In total, 31 people are accused of money laundering, violation of sports law, match-fixing and fraud.