SALT LAKE CITY — Utah Jazz forward Kevin Love has deleted a social media post that made light of the ongoing FBI investigation into NBA gambling fraud after receiving a call from Portland Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard urging him to reconsider.
Love’s meme — which went viral Thursday — humorously referenced the recent arrests of Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier and Portland head coach Chauncey Billups, both charged with gambling-related fraud. The post, modeled after a popular Coldplay concert meme, was quickly shared across social platforms before Love took it down following his conversation with Lillard.
The FBI Investigation That Rocked the NBA
The league has been rattled by the allegations that Rozier and Billups conspired in gambling-related activity. According to federal filings, Rozier allegedly tipped bettors that he would exit a game early, influencing “under” bets on his player props. Billups, meanwhile, was accused of rigging poker games linked to organized crime groups in New York.
The charges have stunned the NBA community, prompting reactions from current and former players — and setting off waves of speculation about how deep the investigation might go.
Love’s Meme Sparks Backlash
Love, known for his lighthearted online presence and sense of humor, said his intention was never to offend. “My whole thing last year was to bring some comedy and relief to tough situations,” the 17-year veteran explained during Jazz shootaround Friday.
However, the post struck a nerve with some players — including Damian Lillard, who publicly commented on Instagram calling the meme “weak.” The two later spoke privately by phone.
“Dame is someone I’ve known for a long time and respect,” Love said. “His mindset was, and I agree — whether they’re right or wrong in this situation, we don’t know what’s going to happen. They’re innocent until proven guilty.”
The Power of Public Perception
Love reflected on how quickly narratives can form in today’s media climate. “Nowadays, it’s almost the other way around,” he said. “In the world of public opinion, people are guilty until proven innocent. It’s flipped.”
Love emphasized his personal connections to both Rozier and Billups. Rozier was a teammate of Love’s in Miami last season, and Billups — a former NBA Finals MVP — served as a mentor early in Love’s career.
“I hope none of it’s true,” Love said. “Terry’s a good guy, an Ohio guy. I have a lot of love for him and his family. This whole situation just caught everyone off guard.”
Standing by His Humor, But Respecting the Moment
While Love deleted the post, he didn’t issue a formal apology, maintaining that his intent was humor rather than mockery.
“I thought it was funny — and I still think it was funny,” he said with a smile. “But I do understand not everybody’s going to see it that way. Sometimes, you’ve just got to know when to pull back.”
The incident highlights how sensitive the NBA community has become amid one of its most serious scandals in years. For Love, the moment served as a reminder of the fine line between levity and empathy — especially when colleagues face uncertain futures.
