John Salley Says Chauncey Billups Was Framed: “He’s Not That Type of Guy”
Four-time NBA champion John Salley publicly defended Chauncey Billups in a new interview, saying his former Detroit Pistons teammate and friend is being wrongfully accused of game-fixing. “He’s simply not that type of guy,” Salley told Digital Content Creative Joe “joy.of.everything” Andaloro.
Four-time NBA champion John Salley stands by Chauncey Billups, calling the recent allegations against his former teammate “unbelievable.” Courtesy of Blazers YouTube
John Salley, a four-time NBA champion and a vital figure in the Detroit Pistons’ ‘Bad Boys’ era, recently defended his friend and fellow Piston legend, Chauncey Billups.
In an interview with Digital Content Creative Joe “joy.of.everything,” Andaloro, Salley dismissed the recent allegations of game fixing against Billups, claiming they were completely unfounded.
“I don’t believe any of it,” Salley said. “I talked to Gilbert Arenas about it, and the fact that someone even had the nerve to throw his name into this situation — I’d be pissed off too.”
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The NBA veteran, well-known for his candor and strong ties to the basketball community, didn’t shy away from challenging the motives behind the accusations and the selective targeting of high-profile figures.
“They Only Showed the Household Names”
Salley pointed out that the public narrative surrounding the alleged scandal was inconsistent.
“What I told Gilbert was, it’s amazing they only showed three guys we’ve actually heard of, out of 30. Why not show everyone involved if you’re going to name names? They only showed the ones who are professional athletes, the household names. If that’s the case, then show them all — don’t just go after the recognizable faces,” he said.
The former Pistons forward questioned the credibility of the claims, emphasizing that Billups lacks both the time and temperament to engage in any illicit activity.
“If Anything Shady Was Going On, the NBA Would Have Known”
Salley, whose achievements included winning championships with the Pistons, Bulls, and Lakers, stated that it’s unlikely that Billups would be involved in any game-fixing operation, particularly since he’s currently a head coach in the NBA.
“They’ve been watching Chauncey for four years, and he’s moved up the coaching ranks in that time. If anything shady was going on, the NBA would have known long ago,” Salley said. “Somebody would’ve said something. It’s just unfortunate because that’s my guy. I don’t believe players are cheap — guys want to win. That’s what it’s about.”
“One Hundred Percent — He Was Framed”
Salley did not hesitate when asked if he believed Billups and the other individuals were framed.
“One hundred percent — by the same people they won’t name,” he stated. “Think about it — you really think Chauncey’s got time to be out here building some kind of setup? The man flies into Vegas, gets paid to show up, plays poker, and that’s it. He’s not out here running games.”
Salley stated that his former teammate is being unfairly attacked for just lending his name and presence to a legitimate event.
“He shouldn’t be in any trouble for putting on the event, period,” Salley said. “People start talking, and suddenly your name is in something that doesn’t make sense. Chauncey’s not that kind of guy. He’s not compromised like that.”
Standing by His Former Teammate
Salley concluded by stating that Billups’ character is a reflection of his abilities as a player and coach.
“People might think he’s standoffish sometimes, but that’s not him being mean — that’s him being smart about who he interacts with,” Salley explained. “I don’t think for one second that Chauncey Billups was involved the way they’re trying to make it sound.”
Salley’s defense of Billups is a strong voice for those who call for caution and fairness as speculation continues. The NBA veteran’s commitment to integrity in a sport he has dedicated his life to is not restricted to protecting a fellow player.
