Stern believes Donaghy acted by himself
NEW YORK – David Stern blamed a “rogue, isolated criminal” Tuesday for a betting scandal that has devastated the league and threatened the credibility of every referee.
A subdued Stern said he felt betrayed by former referee Tim Donaghy, the target of an FBI investigation for allegedly betting on games, including some he officiated, over the last two seasons.
Stern said he believed no other officials or players would be implicated in the betting scandal.
Pausing often and carefully choosing his words during the packed, 1-hour, 10-minute news conference, Stern compared Donaghy to someone who’s committed treason.
“I feel betrayed by what happened on behalf of the sport, regardless of how protective I’ve been,” he said. “This is not something that is anything other than an act of betrayal of what we know in sports as a sacred trust.”
Besides allegedly placing his own wagers, investigators also are examining whether Donaghy provided inside information to others, including the referee’s schedules, according to a person familiar with the investigation.
“Not only aren’t they permitted to either gamble or provide information to people,” Stern said, “they may not even provide other than to their immediate family the details of their travel schedules or the games they are going to work.”
The FBI first contacted the NBA on June 20 to talk about a referee alleged to be gambling on games, and the two sides met on June 21, Stern said. Donaghy resigned July 9, although Stern said he would have fired him sooner but was told it might affect the investigation.
Although Donaghy has not yet been charged with a crime, Stern said the referee’s lawyer told the league his client is contemplating a plea.
But as far as Stern is concerned, “If you bet on a game, you lose the benefit of the doubt.”
Donaghy’s attorney, John Lauro, declined comment when reached by telephone. Donaghy is expected to surrender late this week or early next week.
Stern said he believes the NBA will recover from the damage, noting college basketball and German soccer had overcome point-shaving scandals.
“I can tell you that this is the most serious situation and worst situation that I have ever experienced either as a fan of the NBA, a lawyer for the NBA or a commissioner of the NBA,” said Stern, who has held the top post for 23 years.
Stern said there was nothing suspicious about the frequency of Donaghy’s foul calls, the size of his bank account or anything else that would have tipped off the league.