Cavs Head Coach J. B. Bickerstaff Reveals Gamblers Threatened Him Over Lost Bets

J. B. Bickerstaff - Boston Celtics v Cleveland Cavaliers

(Photo : Jason Miller/Getty Images) CLEVELAND, OHIO - Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff of the Cleveland Cavaliers reacts during the fourth quarter against the Boston Celtics at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on March 05, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Celtics 105-104.

Cleveland Cavaliers head coach J.B. Bickerstaff revealed that individuals who had lost bets on their games had threatened him and his family.

The 45-year-old tactician made these comments before their home game against the Miami Heat on Wednesday, March 20, at the Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse.

"Some of the sports gamblers, they got my telephone number and were sending me crazy messages about where I live and my kids and all that stuff. So it is a dangerous game and a fine line that we're walking for sure," Bickerstaff said.

The NBA maintains a business relationship with FanDuel, providing betting options through its app. Additionally, the Cavs have partnered with Caesar's Sportsbook and have an in-arena sportsbook of their own.

The Cavaliers narrowly lost the game against the Heat, 107-104.

JB Bickerstaff claims sports gambling adds pressure to several jobs

As sports gambling continues to grow in popularity worldwide, Bickerstaff emphasized that his job has become increasingly challenging.

He also said that it brings added pressure and distraction to the game, which can be challenging for players, coaches, referees, and everyone involved.

"It does carry a weight. A lot of times the people who are gambling like this money pays their light bill or pay their rent, and then the emotions that come from that," the Cavaliers head coach added.