Full Breakdown
Malik Beasley Signs with Bad Bunny’s Basketball Team Amid Ongoing Gambling Investigation
2/17/2026, 12:25:09 PM
Core Event: Beasley’s Career Shift to Puerto Rico
Malik Beasley, a former NBA player, has signed with the Cangrejeros de Santurce, a professional basketball team in Puerto Rico owned by Grammy Award-winning artist Bad Bunny. This move comes as Beasley faces an ongoing investigation into potential gambling offenses linked to his time with the Milwaukee Bucks during the 2023-24 NBA season. The investigation has left Beasley without an NBA team, despite being cleared in a federal probe.
Background & Context: The Gambling Investigation
Beasley’s situation is part of a broader gambling scandal affecting several NBA players, including Jontay Porter and Terry Rozier. Reports indicate that Beasley was involved in unusual betting activity, particularly concerning a game against the Portland Trail Blazers where he recorded six rebounds despite bets being placed on him to record fewer than 2.5. This incident has led to scrutiny from the NBA, which is investigating gambling-related offenses among its players.
Key Figures & Groups: Malik Beasley and Bad Bunny
Malik Beasley, known for his performance as the 2024-25 Sixth Man of the Year, has been a free agent since the investigation began. His attorney, Steve Haney, has publicly defended him, stating, “Malik is not charged, not indicted and not a target of the investigation, but he’s unemployed because of it.” Bad Bunny, a prominent figure in the music industry, co-owns the Cangrejeros de Santurce, which has provided Beasley an opportunity to continue playing basketball while awaiting the outcome of the NBA investigation.
Official Statements & Responses
Beasley expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play in Puerto Rico, stating on Instagram, “With everything going on, I wanted to be close to home and give myself a chance to be seen again.” The Cangrejeros de Santurce welcomed him with a message on social media, indicating their support for his return to competitive basketball.
Criticism & Opposition: Concerns Over the Investigation's Impact
Critics argue that the ongoing investigation has unjustly affected Beasley’s career. His attorney highlighted the challenges faced by Beasley, emphasizing that the lack of charges or indictments has not prevented the negative consequences on his professional life. The situation raises questions about the fairness of the NBA's investigation process and its impact on players' careers.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps: Uncertainty in the Investigation
While Beasley has been cleared in a federal investigation, the NBA's inquiry continues without any formal charges against him. This discrepancy has led to uncertainty regarding his future in the league, as no team has signed him since the investigation began. The lack of clarity surrounding the allegations has left Beasley in a precarious position as he seeks to return to the NBA.
What's Next: Future Prospects for Beasley
As Beasley plays for the Cangrejeros de Santurce, he aims to maintain his competitive edge while awaiting the resolution of the NBA investigation. His performance in Puerto Rico may influence potential opportunities in the NBA, depending on the outcome of the ongoing scrutiny into gambling activities within the league.
