Tyronn Lue Voices Support for Chauncey Billups Amid Federal Investigation and Team Suspension

Before the LA Clippers’ 114–107 win over the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday night, Clippers coach Tyronn Lue addressed the news surrounding one of his closest friends in the basketball world: Chauncey Billups. The Portland head coach was arrested Thursday as part of a federal investigation into illegal gambling and rigged poker games, leading the Trail Blazers to place him on administrative leave.

Speaking with reporters at Crypto.com Arena, Lue said he had spoken with Billups since the arrest and described his friend as “really confident about the situation.” The two share a relationship that stretches back more than two decades, dating to their teenage years. Lue is the godfather to Billups’ three daughters, a bond that makes the moment especially personal.

“It’s hard to process,” Lue said. “You hate to see him go through something like this, along with his three girls and his wife, Piper. I believe in Chauncey’s character. I know who he is as a person.”

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the investigation, Lue emphasized that his faith in Billups remains unwavering. “He has my love and support always,” he said.

1. Lue’s Loyalty and Belief in Billups’ Character

Lue and Billups have been linked since their early playing days. Their friendship grew during their NBA careers and later evolved as both transitioned into coaching. That personal history made the recent news difficult for Lue to absorb, but also strengthened his resolve to stand by Billups during a challenging time. “When you’ve known somebody that long, you can tell by their voice how they’re doing,” Lue said. “He’s confident about the situation, but obviously, the hardest part is what his family has to deal with.” According to Lue, Billups sounded calm and focused when they spoke, a sign that the veteran coach is trying to keep perspective amid the legal scrutiny. “Hearing his voice, I could tell he’s OK,” Lue said. “That was good to hear.” Billups’ reputation throughout his playing and coaching career has been one of professionalism and composure — traits Lue referenced repeatedly. For him, the situation is less about doubt and more about offering steady support to someone who has long been part of his extended family.

2. Portland’s Response and Leadership Shift

Following Billups’ arrest, the Portland Trail Blazers moved swiftly to place him on leave pending further legal developments. Assistant coach Tiago Splitter, a former NBA center and long-time assistant on Billups’ staff, was promoted to interim head coach. Under Splitter, the Blazers responded positively in their first game after the coaching change, defeating the Golden State Warriors on Friday night. Team officials have not issued additional details on the duration of Billups’ leave, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. The organization expressed confidence in Splitter’s ability to maintain stability within the locker room. Still, the situation leaves the franchise in an uncertain position early in the season, as it navigates both legal developments and on-court challenges. For many around the league, including Lue, the focus remains on Billups the person as much as the coach. “It’s just tough to see someone you love going through something like this,” Lue said. “I know how much he cares about the game and his family.”

3. Confidence Amid Uncertainty

Billups, 47, has not commented publicly since the arrest, but Lue’s remarks offered a glimpse into the mindset of a man facing one of the most difficult chapters of his professional life. According to Lue, Billups remains positive and focused on cooperating fully with authorities as the investigation continues. The relationship between Lue and Billups, forged through competition and friendship, now takes on new meaning as one offers the other emotional support. For Lue, it’s about loyalty — a quality he’s known for both as a coach and as a friend. “He’s handled himself the same way he always has,” Lue said. “With confidence, with integrity, and with grace. That’s who he is.” As the Trail Blazers move forward with Splitter at the helm and Billups awaits further legal clarity, those close to him — including Lue — continue to express faith in his character and resilience.